tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17382722974936508872017-07-23T04:36:14.028-04:00The Random RunnerKrista Robertsonnoreply@blogger.comBlogger42125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1738272297493650887.post-91009422743959340322015-01-02T14:54:00.001-05:002015-01-05T09:14:46.891-05:00It's a New Year...and a New Random RunnerIt's 2015!!! It's time to make a fresh start. More importantly it's time to cut down on the randomness.&nbsp;<div><br></div><div>2014 was a great year...filled with lots of change. If I had to sum it up into just a few highlights here are my Hits and Misses:</div><div><br></div><div>Hits</div><div>• Moved halfway across the country from Georgia to Oklahoma. More importantly I did it without losing my mind or drop-kicking one of my kids.&nbsp;</div><div>• Participated in the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon Relay. This has been on my bucket list for a while...and now I can finally say I did it!<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LfcWHKYxoTY/VKb3YnuGtdI/AAAAAAAAATU/R8oTNDmDT54/s640/blogger-image--933045122.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LfcWHKYxoTY/VKb3YnuGtdI/AAAAAAAAATU/R8oTNDmDT54/s640/blogger-image--933045122.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div><div>• Bought these fancy new running shoes. Aren't they pretty? &nbsp;I call them my purple pavement eaters.&nbsp;<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Ljb9POW8Mw0/VKb-mxaG0NI/AAAAAAAAATk/H-vo2ZUuD2I/s640/blogger-image--1200159097.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Ljb9POW8Mw0/VKb-mxaG0NI/AAAAAAAAATk/H-vo2ZUuD2I/s640/blogger-image--1200159097.jpg"></a></div><br></div></div><div>• Added Texas and Colorado to the list of states where I have run.&nbsp;</div><div>• Joined the Y and tried out spinning and yoga classes.&nbsp;</div><div>• Completed my first ever running streak of 32 days. That's right...I ran at least a mile a day for 32 days in a row. In the middle of summer. In the Oklahoma heat. (Some days I question my sanity)&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Misses</div><div>• Fell flat on my butt while running...for the first time. Honestly, I'm amazed this didn't happen before...I'm quite the clutz. After running exactly 0.16 miles on the San Antonio riverwalk I stepped in a whole and twisted my ankle. &nbsp;</div><div>• Broke my toe. I'd love to say I was doing something exciting...but I was just putting away laundry. I've been telling my husband for years that housework can be deadly. I'll spare you the pictures.&nbsp;<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-oVQrdfMtkXI/VKdR0edDjXI/AAAAAAAAAT0/cP9ortyiYQ0/s640/blogger-image-1539988658.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-oVQrdfMtkXI/VKdR0edDjXI/AAAAAAAAAT0/cP9ortyiYQ0/s640/blogger-image-1539988658.jpg"></a></div></div><div>• Logged very few miles in my pretty new purple pavement eaters. Now that I'm working part time it's just harder to fit in a good run. Or a run around the block. Or a brisk walk to the mailbox.&nbsp;</div><div>• Zero blog posts. Wow, that is TERRIBLE! &nbsp;Another sign that some things need to change around here.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Now it is 2015. A new year and a new start. A new chance to get back into running. To make sure I don't lose focus I've set a new goal. I signed up to run a half marathon in the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon. My first half marathon EVER! &nbsp;What have I gotten myself into?</div><div><br></div><div>I'll let you know how training goes...it's going to be an interesting 4 months!</div>Krista Robertsonhttps://plus.google.com/115781861878107840444noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1738272297493650887.post-50544928809800238602013-12-11T17:25:00.001-05:002013-12-11T17:25:57.021-05:00Running with Christmas Vacation<br /><div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></div><br /><div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></div><div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></div>I love my running app. &nbsp;Not only does it keep up with my miles and pace...but it also posts on Facebook for me when I'm out on a run. &nbsp;If anyone makes a comment on my run, the app will read them too me. &nbsp;Often I get comments like, "Run like you stole it." &nbsp;This week, however, my friends Holly and Tony decided they wanted to entertain me while I ran.<br /><div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></div><div><a name='more'></a></div>The whole thing started off while I was running on Wednesday. &nbsp;It started innocent enough...but quickly went downhill. &nbsp;See what I mean:<br /><ul><li>Tony - We should stop and have donuts.</li><li>Tony - You know Dasher and Dancer, Prancer and Vixen, Comet and Cupid, Donner and Blitzen. &nbsp;but do you recall, the most famous reindeer of all?</li><li>Tony - Jingle Bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way.</li><li>Tony - Four score and seven years ago, our forefathers created the great nation.</li><li>Holly - She's short and skinny, but she's strong. &nbsp;Her first baby came out sideways. &nbsp;She didn't scream or nuthin'.</li><li>Tony - Soylent green is made of people</li></ul>I thought that I was having trouble running that day since I was laughing so hard. &nbsp;Little did I know it would get worse on Thursday's run:<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/61/d8/8e/61d88e23d794159448b5935ae47ad78b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation. We watch this every Christmas as a family! My stepmom thinks it is stupid - but we always quote it to her and she laughs! Hopefully we will win her over this Christmas! #indigo #magicalholiday." border="0" height="320" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/61/d8/8e/61d88e23d794159448b5935ae47ad78b.jpg" width="224" /></a></div><ul><li>Holly - If I woke up tomorrow wit my head sewn to the carpet, I wouldn't be more surprised than i am now.</li><li>Tony - &nbsp;She falls down a well, her eyes go cross. &nbsp;She gets kicked by a mule they go back. &nbsp;I don't know.</li><li>Tony - It's a membership to the Jelly of the Month Club. &nbsp;Clark, that's the gift that keeps on giving throughout the entire year.</li><li>Holly - Can I refill your eggnog for you? &nbsp;Get you something to eat? &nbsp;Drive you out to the middle of nowhere and leave you for dead?</li><li>Tony - I hope nobody I know drives by and sees me standing in the year staring a the house in my pajamas.</li><li>Holly - Is Rusty still in the navy?</li><li>Tony - Fixed the newel post.</li><li>Tony - Oh, I was just smelling - smiling. &nbsp;I was just blouse - browsing. &nbsp;I, uh, heh heh. &nbsp;Well, I guess it just wouldn't...Oh hee hee, it wouldn't be the Christmas shopping season if the stores were any less hooter than they - HOTTER than they are. &nbsp;Whew. &nbsp;It is warm in here, isn't it?</li></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/6e/30/70/6e3070bf3a4f9fcc806850879d0008a0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Bhahahhahaa one of my favorite lines of the whole movie! Already started watching this holiday season!!" border="0" height="234" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/6e/30/70/6e3070bf3a4f9fcc806850879d0008a0.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>There were a couple of times I almost had to stop...I was laughing so hard. &nbsp;You've gotta love friends like that!&nbsp; <br /><br />So...who's in the mood to watch a little "Christmas Vacation"<br /><br />Happy Streaking!</div><br /><br /><br />Krista Robertsonhttps://plus.google.com/115781861878107840444noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1738272297493650887.post-62399425297579971772013-12-06T14:52:00.001-05:002013-12-06T14:54:20.112-05:00I Love Streaking...Today is my 9th day of streaking...just not that kind of streaking<br /><br />So far, I've run 8 of the 9 days. &nbsp;(Yes, I broke the streak on day 4. &nbsp;It was a Sunday and I just forgot to run. &nbsp;When I remembered it was 8 at night and I was in the middle of my second piece of pizza...oops.) &nbsp;I decided the next day I would start all over and ignore my miss. &nbsp;I wasn't going to let one little mistake keep me from meeting me goal for the rest of the month.<br /><br /><a name='more'></a><a href="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/0a/05/d7/0a05d703cb9034ee835588da25cb9b9f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /><img alt="The 2013 Runner's World Holiday Running Streak | Runner's World" border="0" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/0a/05/d7/0a05d703cb9034ee835588da25cb9b9f.jpg" /></a><u>Here's what I've done so far:</u><br />Nov. 28 (Thanksgiving) - 4 miles<br />Nov. 29 - 1.5 miles<br />Nov 30 - 4.8 miles<br />Dec 1 - 0 miles<br />Dec 2 - 3.1 miles<br />Dec 3 - 1.6 miles<br />Dec 4 - 1.3 miles<br />Dec 5 - 1 mile<br />Dec 6 - 2 miles<br /><br />That's a total of 19.3 miles. &nbsp;Not too shabby for only 9 days!<br /><br />Since I began I have mostly run short runs. &nbsp;There's a reason for that...my knees are killing me. &nbsp;My body is not used to running this often. &nbsp;My plan is to keep the runs short for now, hoping that my knees will start to adjust and I can up my mileage per day. <br /><br />Happy streaking everyone!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Krista Robertsonhttps://plus.google.com/115781861878107840444noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1738272297493650887.post-69824114111150413662013-11-22T08:59:00.000-05:002013-11-28T23:15:26.533-05:00It's Only a Mile...Or Is It?The mile.&nbsp; Ever runner knows the mile.&nbsp; Some love it, and some hate it. &nbsp;<br><br>During my "career" as a runner the mile has had different meanings to me.&nbsp; During my first couple of runs I never thought I'd be able to run a mile.&nbsp; Heck, I could barely run for a minute.&nbsp; How was I ever going to run long enough to cover a whole mile? &nbsp;I even drove a mile in my car to check the distance. &nbsp; It just seemed crazy.<br><br>Then one day, it happened.&nbsp; I actually ran a mile. &nbsp;After training for what felt like forever (really only about 2 months) I ran a mile. &nbsp;I was a miracle. Before I knew it I was up to 2 miles and then 3.&nbsp;<div><br></div><div>It's amazing how over time you perspective changes. Recently I was on a long run and told myself, "Only one more mile." &nbsp;Only one...like it's no big deal. Just around the corner (or two or three). I would never have said "Only one more mile" way back at the beginning.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Starting today I'm going to look at a mile a little differently. From Thanksgiving through New Year's Day I'm committing to run at least one mile each day. That's 35 straight days of running. At least 35 miles. I usually only run every other day...so this will be a challenge.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-XX6g_Z2VLCM/UpgOM68Q0sI/AAAAAAAAASc/n8b70BBXjRA/s640/blogger-image-909940612.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-XX6g_Z2VLCM/UpgOM68Q0sI/AAAAAAAAASc/n8b70BBXjRA/s640/blogger-image-909940612.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div>This morning I started my "streak" by running 4 miles around the base of Stone Mountain. I can't think of a more beautiful place to run. It was a cold, cold, cold morning...thank goodness is was sunny! &nbsp;</div><div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-WvLMRvkEUjY/UpgSHNPhlvI/AAAAAAAAASo/-nghOT3FBBc/s640/blogger-image-312040655.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-WvLMRvkEUjY/UpgSHNPhlvI/AAAAAAAAASo/-nghOT3FBBc/s640/blogger-image-312040655.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Now that I've put it in writing for the world to see I can't give up. It's the start of something new...for 35 days at least.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving!</div>Krista Robertsonhttps://plus.google.com/115781861878107840444noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1738272297493650887.post-60915070869424609932013-11-07T21:19:00.000-05:002013-11-07T21:19:42.492-05:00Let Me Introduce MyselfHello! I'd like to introduce myself. &nbsp;My name is the Random Runner. &nbsp;You may have heard of me...I used to write a blog about my running...or sometimes the lack thereof.<br /><br />Lately you may have noticed that I haven't been blogging...but you may not know I haven't been running much either. Yep...that's why I'm the random runner. <br /><br /><a name='more'></a><br />October was quite the month. &nbsp;I ran like crazy the first half of the month...and ended the month by not running for two week break. &nbsp;I didn't bike at all (other than selling Cub Scout popcorn with my son). &nbsp;Not my best month...<br /><br />So...you may be wondering how I did on all of my October goals. &nbsp;Here is how I would grade myself:<br /><ul><li><span style="color: #93c47d;">Run 26.2 miles</span><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;">- I ran a total of 38.19 miles...almost a marathon and&nbsp;</span><span style="color: black;">a half. &nbsp;</span>A+</span></li><li><span style="color: #93c47d;"><span style="color: #93c47d;">Run a least 2 times each week</span> - </span>This should have been an easy goal. &nbsp;This was one of those I had no doubt I could do...and I didn't. &nbsp;I started strong, but then sickness, pain, commitments and life got in the the way.<span style="color: #93c47d;"> <span style="color: red;">&nbsp;D</span></span></li><li><span style="color: #93c47d;">Run a non-stop 10k</span> - I set this goal several months ago...so it has been in the back of my mind for a while. &nbsp;I'm proud to say I actually did this twice during October. &nbsp;<span style="color: red;">A</span></li><li><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: #93c47d;">Participate in a 5k race</span><span style="color: black;">&nbsp;- I ran in the Stamp Out Poverty 5k on the 12th. &nbsp;A miracle happened and I actually&nbsp;</span><a href="http://www.therandomrun.blogspot.com/2013/10/miracles-really-do-happen.html">placed in my age group and won a medal</a><span style="color: black;">. &nbsp;It's so pretty! &nbsp;I resisted the urge to wear it every day for a month...but I was tempted. &nbsp;</span><span style="color: red;">A++</span></span></li><li><span style="color: #93c47d;">Not die running</span> - I know I set the bar pretty low here...but if I can't accomplish this I have no business running. &nbsp;(Not that I could run anymore...) &nbsp;<span style="color: red;">A</span></li><li><span style="color: #93c47d;">Complete 26.2 miles before the 15th</span> - I knew this would be a stretch...but I finished my marathon on the 14th. &nbsp;I guess I didn't leave much room to spare...but as long as I finished then that's all that matters. &nbsp;<span style="color: red;">A</span></li><li><span style="color: #93c47d;">Run a 5k with an average pace of 10:00</span> - This is one I still can't believe I really did. &nbsp;I went running on a Monday morning and kicked butt. &nbsp;I ran faster than I had ever run before. My pace was 9:39...and my total run was 29:54. &nbsp;Now that I know I can run that fast means I need to do it more often...maybe my next race? &nbsp; <span style="color: red;">A++</span></li><li><span style="color: #93c47d;">Run 1 mile in 9 minutes or less</span> - &nbsp;Not so much. &nbsp;Right now my fastest is 9:23. &nbsp;I was going to work on this during the second half of the month, but it's hard to reach a goal when you don't even run. <span style="color: red;">&nbsp;C-</span></li><li><span style="color: #93c47d;">Run 10 miles without stopping</span> - This was my most ambitious goal by far. My longest run was 8.6 miles. &nbsp;This was my last run before my long break. &nbsp;I wanted to go farther...but my legs just stopped. &nbsp;They wouldn't move another inch. &nbsp;I had to wait a couple of minutes before I could even start to walk to my car. &nbsp;<span style="color: red;">F</span></li></ul><div>&nbsp;I can't wait to get my medal in the mail...I worked hard to earn it. &nbsp;I'll post pictures when it arrives.<br /><br />Why did I barely run during the second half of the month? &nbsp;Well, it was a mixture of a lot of little things.</div><div><ol><li>During my super-long 8.6 mile run my ankle and foot started to hurt. &nbsp;I mean really hurt...like I was worried I had a stress fracture hurt. &nbsp;I ignored the pain while I was running...but afterwards I started to get a little worried. &nbsp;I knew I needed to give myself a few extra days of rest. &nbsp;</li><li>I volunteered to proctor standardized testing at school.</li><li>My fall allergies kicked in, and I couldn't breathe very well...much less run. &nbsp;</li><li>I went Cub Scout camping with my son. &nbsp;We stayed up late at night walked a lot during the day. &nbsp;The camp had lots of hills and uneven &nbsp;paths. &nbsp;The weekend was not conducive to running.</li><li>All the walking at camp gave me blisters...bad</li><li>A doctor's appointment</li><li>More volunteering at school.</li></ol><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/c7/dc/b2/c7dcb26d7b913daa0e4adf153c745b77.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="excuses are like running shoes" border="0" height="250" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/c7/dc/b2/c7dcb26d7b913daa0e4adf153c745b77.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />I know...no excuse is a good excuse...but this is the best I have. &nbsp;This is why I'm a random runner.</div></div><br /><div>Today is Thursday again...and I'm ready to hit the road. &nbsp;I'm ready to get back into it. &nbsp;Let's go!!!</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/69/7e/2c/697e2c179355967b9da6e078b1916b79.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Run for more than the finish line. #chadhalf #chadhero #running #motivation" border="0" height="305" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/69/7e/2c/697e2c179355967b9da6e078b1916b79.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Krista Robertsonhttps://plus.google.com/115781861878107840444noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1738272297493650887.post-71886719598039999252013-10-14T07:43:00.004-04:002013-10-14T07:44:10.822-04:00Miracles Really Do Happen!<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/--8NGDzks_Wg/UltWSQxdxHI/AAAAAAAAARs/PXwQLX4nX_I/s640/blogger-image--1622076691.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/--8NGDzks_Wg/UltWSQxdxHI/AAAAAAAAARs/PXwQLX4nX_I/s640/blogger-image--1622076691.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>Saturday wasn't just a good running day...it was a MIRACULOUS day. &nbsp;I did something I never thought I'd do...I earned my first running medal. &nbsp;Now this wasn't a finisher's medal...the type everyone who crosses the finish line gets. &nbsp;Nope...this was a real honest to goodness medal I earned. &nbsp;Well...kinda. &nbsp;Here's my story:<br /><div><br /></div><div>In an effort to get in my October race I needed to run this weekend. &nbsp;Last weekend we were out of town and I have conflicts the next two weekends...so that meant this was the <u>only</u> weekend available. &nbsp;The only problem is that there weren't many races to choose from...without driving a couple of hours. I finally found a race that was close to me. &nbsp;I had trouble finding it, because it wasn't well advertised, but I finally found the Benevolent Charity Fund Stamp Out Poverty 5k. &nbsp;</div><div></div><div><br /><a name='more'></a>The race was a 45 minute drive away, so I had to start the morning at 6. &nbsp;On a Saturday. &nbsp;What was I thinking? I don't do early very well...and I don't like leaving the house before the sun comes up. <br /><br />Since I wasn't sure where I was going I arrived about 40 minutes early. &nbsp;I quickly noticed that the only people dressed to run were high school students. &nbsp;Oh help! &nbsp;I immediately began to wonder if I was going to finish last. &nbsp;I also wondered if the church was open for me to use the bathrooms. &nbsp;After returning from the lovely porta-pottie in the back of the parking lot (the day just kept getting better) I found more adults ready to run. &nbsp;Thank goodness!!! &nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>When the race started there were still less than 50 people running. &nbsp;This is by far the smallest race I've ever run. &nbsp;I surveyed the crowd and there were 3-4 ladies that might be in age group. &nbsp;I found my competition. &nbsp;There were only 2 medals per age group, so I knew I would have to push myself to run. &nbsp;With that small of a group I was determined to medal.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://ilovetorun.org/images/ecards/s5-42_03_10_13_16_50.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="242" src="https://ilovetorun.org/images/ecards/s5-42_03_10_13_16_50.png" width="320" /></a>The race began and all the high school kids took off. &nbsp;I was left in the back with some of the older folks (not old...just older.) &nbsp;Age before beauty...or something like that. I passed a few people, but there just weren't many runners around me. &nbsp;Soon the only person just in front of me was 20 feet ahead, and and she was slowly inching further away. &nbsp;Of course, she looked to be in my age group...but there was no way I was going to catch her. &nbsp;I was sure all the other ladies I was competing against were behind me...but I wasn't positive. &nbsp;All I could do is pray for the best and just keep running.<br /><br />As I finished the race I realized that I was the 18th person to finish. (I told you that it was a really small race.) My time wasn't as good as I would have liked. &nbsp;I finished in 33:01, but my app said I had run 3.23 miles. &nbsp;(I guess they hadn't measured correctly for the start and finish line.) &nbsp;My actual 5k time was 31:43 (only 20 seconds behind my best) and my average pace was 10:13...not too shabby.<br /><br />This race I stayed around for the awards. &nbsp;Usually I leave after the race was over...but the slight chance of a medal kept me from bolting. &nbsp;(That and the fact that police cars had blocked off the street where we were racing.) &nbsp;I am proud to say that I placed 2nd in my age group...out of 2. &nbsp;I was also the 2nd female over 20 to finish. After 3 straight races finishing in 4th I finally had my medal! I don't think I'm going to take it off for a few days...just don't laugh when you see me wearing it in Walmart.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/--8NGDzks_Wg/UltWSQxdxHI/AAAAAAAAARs/PXwQLX4nX_I/s1600/blogger-image--1622076691.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/--8NGDzks_Wg/UltWSQxdxHI/AAAAAAAAARs/PXwQLX4nX_I/s320/blogger-image--1622076691.jpg" width="307" /></a></div><br />This race added to my October marathon...giving me a total of 22.5 miles. &nbsp;Only 3.7 miles left to go! &nbsp;I CAN do this before the 15th. &nbsp;Stay tuned for more marathon updates.<br /><br /></div><div><br /></div><div></div>Krista Robertsonhttps://plus.google.com/115781861878107840444noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1738272297493650887.post-64932795945508972812013-10-09T13:01:00.001-04:002013-10-09T13:52:23.711-04:00Old Runner's BlessingNo...I'm not really old (even though I'm not young either) and I'm only a "random" runner. &nbsp;But, I had a little time to think during my run yesterday. This is what happens when I run 8 miles and have 90 minutes with nothing to think about.<br /><div><br /></div><div>That's right...I stepped it up yesterday and ran a full 8 miles. Why? &nbsp;Because I felt good. Because the weather was wonderfully cool. Because I need to work towards my goal of 10 miles. Because I haven't felt the need to take Advil lately.&nbsp;</div><div><br /><a name='more'></a></div><div>Anyway...during all that extra time I started thinking. I got a little creative...or maybe delusional...I'll let you decide.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t3TFWhceS9I/UlWKniRyViI/AAAAAAAAAQI/cA8wFTmIIhk/s1600/IMG_1899+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t3TFWhceS9I/UlWKniRyViI/AAAAAAAAAQI/cA8wFTmIIhk/s400/IMG_1899+copy.jpg" width="390" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">_____________________________________</div><h2 style="text-align: center;">Virtual Marathon Update:</h2><br />It's 9 days into October, so I thought I'd let you know how I'm doing on the Joggermom Marathon Cancer Run. &nbsp;Over the past 9 days I've run a total of 19.2 miles. &nbsp;Here's how I did it:<br /><br />Oct 1 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Rest<br />Oct 2 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;2.02 miles &nbsp;(An afternoon run on a sunny day...<br />&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;what was I thinking?)<br />Oct 3 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Rest<br />Oct 4 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;5.12 miles<br />Oct 5 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;2.03 miles (I only had time for a short run...<br />&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;we had a Florida football game to get to. &nbsp;Go Gators!!!)<br />Oct 6 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Rest<br />Oct 7 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;2.03 miles (Slow, sweaty, sandy run on the beach)<br />Oct 8 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;8.03 miles (Longest. Run. Ever. &nbsp;Woohoo!!!)<br />Oct 9 &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Rest<br /><br />So...how am I doing on my goals?<br /><br /><ul><li><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Run 26.2 miles</span> - I'm off to a good start...only 7 more miles to go</li><li><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Run at least 2 times each week</span> - So far so good</li><li><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Run a non-stop 10k</span> - DONE on 10/8</li><li><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Participate in a 5k race</span></li><li><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Not die running</span> - So far so good</li><li><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Complete 26.2 miles before the 15th</span> - Maybe...just maybe</li><li><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Run a 5k with an average pace of 10:00</span></li><li><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Run 1 mile in 9 minutes of less</span></li><li><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Run 10 miles with out stopping</span> - I've made it to 8 miles...80% there.</li></ul><div>I'm on track to meet several of my goals...but I'm going to have to pick up the pace (literally) to complete the rest. &nbsp;I'm taking a few days off after my long run...then it's back to work to get everything all done.</div><br /><div style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><ul style="line-height: 1.4; margin: 0.5em 0px; padding: 0px 2.5em;"></ul></div></div>Krista Robertsonhttps://plus.google.com/115781861878107840444noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1738272297493650887.post-7640841134348089252013-10-04T14:09:00.001-04:002013-10-04T14:10:25.144-04:00Embracing the Randomness<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></div>September is over. &nbsp;It was both a good AND bad month for running. The month started with very little time to run, and ended with me breaking records. Times like this is why I'm the RANDOM runner.<br /><br />So...here's what I did manage to accomplish in September:<br /><a name='more'></a><br /><ul><li>Ran a total of 44.62 miles. &nbsp;WOW!</li><li>Cycled 21.18 miles. &nbsp;My goal was 26.2...but I guess it would help to actually get on my bike once and a while. &nbsp;I'll have to work on that in October.</li><li>Walked 8 miles. &nbsp;You may notice my walking is going down...but that's a good thing. &nbsp;As I've been training for a 10k I've been increasing my running distances, so that means less walking. &nbsp;More running means lots more calories burned...bonus!</li><li>Learned how to make running headbands...and became obsessed with making them in every color I can find.</li><li>Ran my first virtual marathon. &nbsp;I love getting running bling!</li><li>Biked in beautiful Calloway Gardens...and managed not to strangle my kids in the process. &nbsp;I'm glad my son has finally mastered using his brakes...but my daughter, not so much.</li><li>Ran a 10k! &nbsp;No walking...nope, none!</li><li>Busted my record 4 days later and ran 7 miles!</li><li>Discovered I can run, chew and swallow without choking or falling into a ditch.</li><li>Ran my September race and set a new PR of 10:15.</li><li>Learned I'm an expert at finishing 4th.</li><li>Learned my doctor thinks I'm an athlete. &nbsp;Makes me wonder if he really knows what he's talking about after all.</li><li>Discovered fall...and am enjoying it for the short week that is lasts here in Georgia.</li></ul>October is my next virtual race...a full marathon. &nbsp;Stay tuned for more updates on my progress...and go for a run while you wait.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/46/fa/48/46fa48b2100f6eb5269e750893f20b7b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="#Running" border="0" height="265" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/46/fa/48/46fa48b2100f6eb5269e750893f20b7b.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Krista Robertsonhttps://plus.google.com/115781861878107840444noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1738272297493650887.post-82416875988982187252013-10-01T21:48:00.004-04:002013-10-01T21:49:25.019-04:00October Marathon Goals<br /><div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></div><br />October is here!!! &nbsp;I'm looking forward to possibly getting a peak at fall...cooler temperatures and lower humidity. &nbsp;We don't really have fall here in Georgia, but I'll take any relief from the summer heat I can get.<br /><br />October is also the month of the Joggermom Marathon. (<a href="http://therandomrun.blogspot.com/2013/07/marathon-madness.html">Read more about it here.</a>) &nbsp;Now that the event is starting I need to decide what my goals will be. &nbsp;I could just go out and run...but I do that every month. &nbsp;I've decided to set a few goals to make the month more challenging.<br /><br /><a name='more'></a><br />I've decided I'm going to set two levels of goals...that way I'll be sure to achieve some, but will still be challenged on others. &nbsp;I'll call my first level of goals "No problem." &nbsp;I should have no problem achieving these goals (notice I said <i>should</i>). &nbsp; The second level is "What was I thinking". &nbsp;These are going to make me really push myself...maybe more than I can do. &nbsp;That's the reason I'm setting easier goals, so that even if I don't meet the hardest goals I won't feel that I've totally failed.<br /><br /><a href="https://ilovetorun.org/images/ecards/_0006_s7-95_02_10_13_01_45.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="242" src="https://ilovetorun.org/images/ecards/_0006_s7-95_02_10_13_01_45.png" width="320" /></a>So, here is what I'd like to accomplish:<br /><br /><u>No Problem</u>:<br /><ul><li>Run 26.2 miles</li><li>Run at least 2 times each week&nbsp;</li><li>Run a non-stop 10k</li><li>Participate in a 5k race</li><li>Not die running</li></ul><div><div><u>What Was I Thinking?!?</u></div></div><div><ul><li>Complete 26.2 miles before the 15th</li><li>Run a 5k with an average pace of 10:00 (I was going to say 10:15...<a href="http://therandomrun.blogspot.com/2013/10/race-for-education.html#more">but I smashed that goal last Saturday</a> so I had to reevaluate.)</li><li>Run 1 mile in 9 minutes or less. &nbsp;(I can guarantee this will be downhill)</li><li>Run 10 miles without stopping.</li></ul><div>As you can see...I've got some pretty easy as well as some pretty ambitious goals. &nbsp;Here's to a great month!</div></div>Krista Robertsonhttps://plus.google.com/115781861878107840444noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1738272297493650887.post-74789609368340625612013-10-01T08:16:00.003-04:002013-10-16T20:29:56.898-04:00Race for EducationFirst...I think I may need to change the name of this blog. &nbsp;What do you think about the "Random Blogger?" I guess I just couldn't call myself the Random Runner if I ran (or blogged) too regularly.<br /><br />Moving on...<br />Saturday I ran in the Race for Education...a local race sponsored by Central Georgia Technical College. &nbsp; &nbsp;You may remember that my goal for the next 12 months is to run at least one race (a 5k or more) each calendar month. &nbsp;That took care of my September race. &nbsp;I know what you're thinking...I waited until the VERY LAST weekend of the month to race. &nbsp;Between soccer, cub scouts and when races were available this was the best race for me.<br /><div><br /><a name='more'></a><br />There was a 5k and 10.2k race. &nbsp;I would have loved to try out the 10k, now that I've worked myself up to that distance...but with soccer conflicts it was best I stuck with the shorter race.<br /><br />Since I didn't have to run as far, I thought that maybe I could up my speed, and shoot for a new PR. &nbsp;Before the race my racing PR was 32:37 or 10:31 min/mile. &nbsp;Not too shabby. &nbsp;Last Saturday I ran a 5k in the neighborhood and my average pace was 10:30. &nbsp;I could count that as a PR...but I like to only count my actual race times. &nbsp;I guess I'm complicated like that. This race I set my goal at 10:15 min/mile...that would be a total time of 31:46. &nbsp;I would have to shave 51 seconds off my race time to meet my goal. &nbsp;I was looking forward to running without the Georgia summer heat and humidity. <br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/--uvvPox6WD4/UkopxLUz5rI/AAAAAAAAAPo/KdOlh_v8aN0/s640/blogger-image-791325771.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/--uvvPox6WD4/UkopxLUz5rI/AAAAAAAAAPo/KdOlh_v8aN0/s320/blogger-image-791325771.jpg" width="239" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ready to race!</td></tr></tbody></table>The morning was nice and cool. &nbsp;When I arrived at the race it was still 58 degrees. &nbsp;Great running weather! &nbsp;I debated wearing a long sleeve shirt or some running capris, but in the end I knew I would feel great as soon as I started running. &nbsp;So...I stuck with my favorite running skirt and my new Nike shirt (that I bought on clearance at Academy the night before.) &nbsp;Trust me...as soon as I started to run I wasn't cold AT ALL. &nbsp;(Just in case you were wondering I finished off the outfit with my silver sparkly headband. &nbsp;If you weren't wondering...oh well.)<br /><br />I had no idea how many runners would be there, so I had no idea what to expect. &nbsp;There was a decent number of runners...149 to be exact. &nbsp;I lined up with all the other runners when it was time for the race to begin. &nbsp;As soon as they said <b>GO</b> the DJ began playing "Chariots of Fire"...and we were off.<br /><br />Once again, I started to run and was immediately passed by lots of runners. &nbsp;I'm amazed how fast some people can start! &nbsp;I pushed my pace a little, but kept it under control. &nbsp;I have my app set to give me my pace every 5 minutes and every mile...so I can have an idea what my pace is all the time. &nbsp;I started running a little slower than I'd like, but it takes me a few minutes to warm up and really get going.<br /><br />Once we left the college I began to pass other runners. &nbsp;There are always some that start too fast and then have to slow down. I love passing people...it just makes me feel good. &nbsp;In fact, this race I kept picking people in front of me and making a goal to pass them. &nbsp;First it was the woman who was behind me in the registration line, the one with the long braids. &nbsp;I passed her around mile 1. <br /><br />Next I set my sights on the two ladies talking. &nbsp;First of all, they looked to be in my age group (from what I could see from behind). &nbsp;Second...they were talking the whole time. &nbsp;I can't run and talk (not enough to have a conversation) so I felt like they deserved to be passed. &nbsp;I slowly gained on them and passed them around 1 1/2 miles. Halfway done!!!<br /><div><br /></div><div>By now the runners had thinned out. The closest person in front of me was about 50 feet away. As a bonus she looked like she might be in my age group. She unknowingly became my next target. I started gaining on her...but then I passed the water station. I didn't stop running, but trying to drink water and run slowed me down a little. I tried the pinch the cup method...and I still splashed water on me. I was glad I had the water...but now I was a little further behind my <strike>target</strike> goal.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>The whole third mile I slowly gained on the woman in front if me (I found out later her name is Sara). As we turned the corner to head for the finish I was about to pass her...but she must have heard me huffing and puffing behind her and she sped up. I sped up too...just not quite as much.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>A minute later she looked at her watch and turned around and said, "We only have 2 minutes to finish under 30." My first thought was, "Yeah right...like I'm going to finish in under 30 minutes." &nbsp;But a moment later I realized I only had about 1/4 of a mile left. &nbsp;If I picked up the pace a <strike>little</strike> lot it just might be possible. I ran as fast as I could for someone who had already run 3 miles. What a great motivation!<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Lv0ipHZmhsA/Ukq83yChFTI/AAAAAAAAAP4/whL8Tr--HB0/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Lv0ipHZmhsA/Ukq83yChFTI/AAAAAAAAAP4/whL8Tr--HB0/s320/photo+1.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sprinting toward the finish.</td></tr></tbody></table>My final time...31:21. My. Best. Run. EVER!!! &nbsp;I had set a goal of 10:15 min/mile and I had blown that out of the water. &nbsp;My time was 10:08. &nbsp;I wasn't sure 10:15 was possible...but I never dreamed of 10:08. &nbsp;The cooler temperatures really helped me (and everyone else it seems.)<br /><br />A few minutes after finishing I checked the leaderboard. I was in 3rd in my age category. &nbsp;Could that really be true? &nbsp;Would I get a medal...or was there a runner still walking around with her finish card. &nbsp;After 10 minutes I checked again, only to learn that I had been bumped to 4th place. &nbsp;That was my final place...4th. Once again, first person to not win anything. &nbsp;That's the third race in a row. &nbsp;I need to break this bad habit! &nbsp;This is also the second race where I would have received a medal if I had been a year older. &nbsp;I would still rather be in my 30s however!!!<br /><br />So, here's all the fun stats from this race:<br /><br /><ul><li>Finished 84 out of 149</li><li>Finished 28 out of 72 Females</li><li>Finished 4 out of 9 Females 35-39</li><li>Total time 31:21</li><li>Pace 10:08 min/mile</li><li>Pace 1st mile - 10:08</li><li>Pace 2nd mile - 10:17</li><li>Pace 3rd mile - 10:01(Don't ask me how I managed to go faster at the end of the race...but I did)</li></ul><div>Overall, a great race...other that the whole 4th place thing. &nbsp;August and September races are over...ready to tackle October!</div></div></div>Krista Robertsonhttps://plus.google.com/115781861878107840444noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1738272297493650887.post-3529392040400554232013-09-20T12:34:00.000-04:002013-09-20T21:43:02.026-04:00My New ObsessionA few months ago I told you about my love of &nbsp;<a href="http://therandomrun.blogspot.com/2013/07/i-love-running-because.html">running shorts</a>. &nbsp;Really, it's an obsession. &nbsp;Well, I've discovered an new obsession: &nbsp;running headbands.<br /><br />I used to run with a narrow little headband, but that didn't keep my long bangs from flopping around and bothering me. <b>Very</b> annoying. &nbsp;My next solution was a hat. &nbsp;I love my dri-fit hat...it keeps my hair out of my way and wicks the sweat off my forehead. &nbsp;So much better!<br /><br /><a name='more'></a>I thought the hat was <b>the</b> solution...until one day I was reading an article about running in heat and humidity. &nbsp;This is Georgia, so I deal with both...<b>lots</b> of both. &nbsp;The article pointed out that one way to stay cool is to not run with a hat, that way the heat could escape from your head. &nbsp;Hmmmm...that makes lots of sense to me. &nbsp;I could return to a headband...but that would mean I'd have to deal with the hair again. &nbsp;What I really needed was a cute wide headband.<br /><br />I looked at my local running store, but I couldn't find what I wanted. &nbsp;That's my problem sometimes...what I'm looking for only seems to exist in my head. &nbsp;(If only more people could read my mind...and sometimes try and interpret what's there...then my life would be sooooo much easier.) <br /><br />My next stop was Pinterest. &nbsp;Maybe someone there could organize my thoughts for me. &nbsp;I found several instructions on how to make my own headbands (not exactly what I wanted...but there was lots of potential.) &nbsp;That's right...I would have to get out the sewing machine and make one for myself. &nbsp;I do own a sewing machine...even though it gets more use as a dust collector. <br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-CqV_eq2SUqo/Ujxh3rX5LdI/AAAAAAAAAPA/GRK5fGDChTk/s640/blogger-image--464927003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-CqV_eq2SUqo/Ujxh3rX5LdI/AAAAAAAAAPA/GRK5fGDChTk/s200/blogger-image--464927003.jpg" width="149" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sewing some OSU orange</td></tr></tbody></table><br />I made a run to Hobby Lobby and found the perfect ribbon...sparkly silver 1" ribbon for the top side and 7/8" black felt for the bottom side (the felt keeps the headband from slipping.) &nbsp;Since I don't sew much I'll let someone else explain how to make the headband...just <a href="http://www.sewrockin.com/2011/10/30/stay-in-place-runners-headband-tutorial/">click here to hear from Jamie at Sew Rockin'</a>. &nbsp;She <b>knows</b> what she's doing.<br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-_e1pIVu6x0E/Ujxh4joimAI/AAAAAAAAAPI/-0i4LlGWF3c/s1600/blogger-image--1587062569.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-_e1pIVu6x0E/Ujxh4joimAI/AAAAAAAAAPI/-0i4LlGWF3c/s320/blogger-image--1587062569.jpg" width="239" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just a few of my headbands</td></tr></tbody></table><br />The first one I made was pretty pathetic...but I learned a lot (mostly what not to do.) &nbsp;My second one turned out great! &nbsp;I was on a role, so I made one for my daughter. &nbsp;I still had enough felt ribbon to make one more, so I looked around the house for more ribbon. &nbsp;I ended up with a cute red and white polka dot.<br /><br />That was just the start. &nbsp;I've restocked my ribbon supply and made several more headbands since then. I tried 1 1/2" ribbon...to make the headband wider. &nbsp;It works okay...but I think I'll stick with the 7/8" for now...it sits on my head better. &nbsp;I think I've become addicted...or possibly obsessed.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">______________________________________</div><h2 style="text-align: center;">Week(s) in Review</h2><br />I'm sure you've noticed I've been a little MIA lately...these last few weeks have been a little more random than usual. &nbsp;Here's a little look at what's been going on over the past few weeks:<br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-pF9_NzJ0YYM/Ujxh0eDDhPI/AAAAAAAAAOw/2o_TU9WPIrc/s1600/blogger-image--88033220.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-pF9_NzJ0YYM/Ujxh0eDDhPI/AAAAAAAAAOw/2o_TU9WPIrc/s320/blogger-image--88033220.jpg" width="239" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ready to run in Alabama...but sporting<br />my Oklahoma State shorts.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Saturday (8/31)<br />The last run of August. &nbsp;We spent Labor Day weekend at the lake so I can now say I've run in Alabama! &nbsp;I ran a total of 3.1 miles...and had a great view of the lake.<br /><br />Sunday (9/1)<br />We took a family bike ride through Calloway Gardens. &nbsp;It was a slow ride with the kids in tow (and a daughter scared of hills)...so there wasn't much cardio going on. &nbsp;Great scenery though...I would highly recommend it!<br /><br />Monday -Wednesday (9/2-9/4)<br />After getting back from the lake my first priority was getting ready for my daughter's birthday party...not working off all those extra holiday pounds. &nbsp;Oops. &nbsp;No time for exercise for a few days.<br /><br />Thursday (9/5)<br />A great 50 minutes of total running to get me back into the swing of things. &nbsp;That made my running distance 4.59 miles, and walk&nbsp;+ run distance of 6.22 miles. I was still not working on burning off the holiday calories, but instead the cake scrap calories.<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tToVgygoWfQ/Ujxw-TMsJfI/AAAAAAAAAPY/i1H03WWJ3as/s1600/IMG_2307a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="311" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tToVgygoWfQ/Ujxw-TMsJfI/AAAAAAAAAPY/i1H03WWJ3as/s320/IMG_2307a.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nancy Drew Birthday cake. <br />The books were edible,&nbsp;the rest...not so much.</td></tr></tbody></table>Friday (9/6)<br />More work on the big Birthday cake and party.<br /><br />Saturday (9/7)<br />Party day!<br /><br />Sunday &amp; Monday (9/8 &amp; 9/9)<br />Rest days...I know...again. &nbsp;I'm wasn't feeling well, so that's my excuse. &nbsp;Not a good one, but that's my story and I'm sticking to it.<br /><br />Tuesday (9/10)<br />Bike day! &nbsp;I rode my usual Tuesday 6 miles (6.26 to be exact). &nbsp;I'm getting faster on my bike...not as fast as my hubby, but I have to start somewhere. &nbsp;(Not to mention that he has a better bike too.)<br /><br />Wednesday (9/11)<br />Rest Day<br /><br />Thursday (9/12)<br />After a week off I finally ran again. &nbsp;I do not recommend taking this much time between runs...but sometime life just works out that way. &nbsp;Only 4.64 miles in 52 1/2 minutes. &nbsp;(With that 1 minute walk mid-run, of course) &nbsp;I was supposed to run 56 minutes...but with all those days off I just couldn't do it. &nbsp;Lesson learned...don't ignore the run, or you'll regret it later.<br /><br />Friday - Sunday (9/13-9/15)<br />It's the weekend! &nbsp;Resting...yet again. &nbsp;Yes, I call myself the Random Runner for a reason.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/--PXzCKy4-I8/UjxhzLDhvHI/AAAAAAAAAOo/cgv-hzEpbkc/s1600/blogger-image--1336626245.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/--PXzCKy4-I8/UjxhzLDhvHI/AAAAAAAAAOo/cgv-hzEpbkc/s320/blogger-image--1336626245.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Couldn't have said it better myself.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Monday (9/16)<br />Finally getting back into a (somewhat) normal week. &nbsp;My Monday run was awesome. <a href="http://therandomrun.blogspot.com/2013/09/a-day-of-firsts.html">&nbsp;I set new records and completed my first Virtual run. </a>&nbsp;My total run was 5.42 miles in 60 minutes 20 seconds. &nbsp;My total distance was 6.22 miles. &nbsp;Almost to that elusive 10k!<br /><br />Wednesday (9/17)<br />Walked all over the kid's school making copies and laminating. &nbsp;I wish I'd worn my pedometer...I <b><i>know</i></b> I logged some serious miles.<br /><br />Thursday (9/18)<br />Victory Day! &nbsp;<a href="http://therandomrun.blogspot.com/2013/09/10k-baby.html">I pushed myself and ran a full 10k.</a> &nbsp;No stops, no walks. &nbsp;Woohoo!!! &nbsp;Can you tell I'm a little excited?<br /><br />Friday (9/19)<br />It's a rest day. &nbsp;I need to bask in the glory of yesterday's run. &nbsp;I'm going to enjoy my victory again today...tomorrow I get out and run again.<br /><br />Krista Robertsonhttps://plus.google.com/115781861878107840444noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1738272297493650887.post-68378991195094368882013-09-19T21:33:00.001-04:002013-09-19T21:33:53.264-04:0010k Baby!!!I wasn't planning on posting today...but I had an epic run. Not a good run, not a great run...an <i><u>EPIC</u></i> run.<br /><div><br /></div><div>For starters, I woke up to a beautiful 63 degree morning. That's a whole 10 degrees cooler than my last run. It's <i>amazing</i> the difference that makes. Second, Monday's run had been record breaking in many ways. I was sure today's would be even better.<br /><br /><a name='more'></a><br />In my 10k training today was the day that I said goodbye to my walk breaks. &nbsp;Today I was supposed to run for 60 minutes <i>straight</i> with no stops. That's right, no walking. &nbsp;Not one single step. &nbsp;Monday I made it just over 49 minutes before I stopped to walk...and my total running time was over 60 minutes so I knew that I could do it.<br /><br />Usually I make crazy running decisions halfway through a run...but not today. &nbsp;Nope, this time I jumped the gun and made my crazy decision before I took a single step. &nbsp;I decided that 60 minutes would almost be a full 10k...so maybe I should just go for it and do the whole thing. &nbsp;After all, the weather was great, I was feeling great, and the planets seemed to be in perfect alignment. &nbsp;Why not go for it? <br /><br />I'm not going to lie...it was hard. &nbsp;My legs wanted to stop, but I didn't give in. &nbsp;I did all I could to make it easier. &nbsp;I drank my water, ate my beans, did my best to avoid running uphill and finished the run on a nice long downhill. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/81/bb/c3/81bbc36950d641b0b4f7f1cd649c325e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Running is nothing more than a series of arguments between the part of your brain that wants to stop and the part that wants to keep going." border="0" height="320" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/81/bb/c3/81bbc36950d641b0b4f7f1cd649c325e.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Finally I finished. &nbsp;I ran a full 10k!!! &nbsp;I was so excited I called my hubby while I walked the long mile back to my house (because I live in the uphill part of the neighborhood). &nbsp;If I'd had any energy left I might have done a cartwheel, but I was just trying to not lie down on the side of the road.<br /><br />I celebrated by having lunch at Moe's...because who couldn't pass up free queso? &nbsp;I can think of only a few better ways to enjoy the 1000 calories I burned than queso. &nbsp;(Cupcakes, ice cream, Coke, chocolate...I could keep going but it's only making me hungry.)<br /><br />Tomorrow will be a rest day...and maybe the next couple days after that. &nbsp;I'm going to enjoy this feeling as long as I can. &nbsp;10k...I did it!!!</div>Krista Robertsonhttps://plus.google.com/115781861878107840444noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1738272297493650887.post-28741997529959646872013-09-16T20:30:00.003-04:002013-09-16T21:33:37.544-04:00A Day of Firsts<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-XduBNFRG49o/UjcvAhlng1I/AAAAAAAAANw/mUAR8pIJRyY/s640/blogger-image-1019786294.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-XduBNFRG49o/UjcvAhlng1I/AAAAAAAAANw/mUAR8pIJRyY/s640/blogger-image-1019786294.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ZcX5IRQxa2E/UjcvEsK3UYI/AAAAAAAAAOI/aphEV-pCcM4/s640/blogger-image--741636840.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ZcX5IRQxa2E/UjcvEsK3UYI/AAAAAAAAAOI/aphEV-pCcM4/s640/blogger-image--741636840.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>Today was a great running day. &nbsp;Some days are good, others are bad...but today was great. &nbsp;I love starting the week off with a good run. &nbsp;It makes me feel strong, it makes me feel confident, it makes me feel like I can conquer the week ahead...and it makes me feel tired. &nbsp;Once I finish this post and take a nice power nap...then I'll be ready to conquer the week.<br /><br />Today I did something I've never done before...I ran my first virtual race. &nbsp;(Click <a href="http://therandomrun.blogspot.com/2013/08/medals-and-medals-and-medalsoh-my.html">here</a> to learn more about virtual races)I know I told you before I signed up for a virtual marathon...well that one's coming up in October. &nbsp;This was another virtual race I found through one of my Facebook running groups...and the race that opened my eyes to the grand, exciting world of virtual running. <br /><br /><a name='more'></a>I received my medal in the mail on Saturday, and it made my day. &nbsp;My hubby just laughed at me...but he's been running since he was 18. &nbsp;Me...I'm a relative newbie and I need motivation. &nbsp;Oh yeah...and BLING.<br /><br /><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/--bjhJJQaw1Q/UjegnQl_dQI/AAAAAAAAAOY/YfgsUfLd_jk/s640/blogger-image--80829009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/--bjhJJQaw1Q/UjegnQl_dQI/AAAAAAAAAOY/YfgsUfLd_jk/s320/blogger-image--80829009.jpg" width="239" /></a>I was so excited to get out there and earn it. &nbsp;Sure, I've run in the past month since I signed up, so I could always use one of those runs to earn the medal. &nbsp;But...wouldn't it be more fun to be able finish the race and immediately put the medal around my neck? &nbsp;Of course!!! &nbsp;That was the plan for today. &nbsp;Continue my 10k training routine (making sure my total walking and running distance was at least 6.2 miles) and earn my medal. &nbsp;What a way to start the week.<br /><br />Since I'm nearing the end of my training the goal today was to have two 30 min runs, with a 1 minute walk break. &nbsp;Easy enough...right? &nbsp;After all, a few weeks ago my total run time was 60 minutes...why shouldn't I be able to do it again?<br /><br />Another first for today...I decided to try carrying a water bottle with me. &nbsp;Since I'm running longer distances and I don't like looping back by my house (in my mind I think I'm done and I want to stop NOW) I decided this might be the solution. &nbsp;Over the weekend I bought a fancy water bottle that has a neat little handle to make it easier to hold while you're running. &nbsp;(Pink, of course, because I'm girly like that.) &nbsp;It's definitely an adjustment...and I haven't yet decided if I like it of not. &nbsp;I'll give it a couple more tries.<br /><br />Water bottle pros:<br /><ul><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_W2OvzMiqCI/UjcvB0lMXtI/AAAAAAAAAN4/CzVFiwG8Jgw/s640/blogger-image-834895034.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_W2OvzMiqCI/UjcvB0lMXtI/AAAAAAAAAN4/CzVFiwG8Jgw/s320/blogger-image-834895034.jpg" width="239" /></a><li>Water ready for me at all times</li><li>The hand strap keeps me from dropping it...even when it gets sweaty&nbsp;</li><li>The pocket is a great place to store my beans. &nbsp;I hate it when I spill the beans.</li></ul><div>Water bottle cons:</div><div><ul><li>Ice cold water is COLD to carry</li><li>It's heavy</li><li>I had to ration my water or it would all be gone before I finished the first 5 minutes</li><li>After a while it got sloshy (not sure that's a word...)</li><li>I tried to carry it switching back and forth between my hands...but my left hand seemed to have some issues. &nbsp;Darn non-dominant hand. &nbsp;</li></ul><div>Ok...back to my run. &nbsp;I always think it's funny how I start a run with a plan...and then it goes right out the window. &nbsp;Today was one of those days. &nbsp;As I approached my 1 minute walk break I decided I really didn't need that break after all. &nbsp; Why not try to run the whole time? &nbsp;These are the crazy decisions I make when running in the sun before my caffeine has fully kicked in. &nbsp;</div></div><div><br /></div><div>So...when the time came for me to walk I just kept on running. &nbsp;My walk break is when I normally eat my beans. &nbsp;They give me nutrients and energy...but mostly they make me happy. &nbsp;I like being a happy runner! &nbsp;Since I wasn't stopping to walk, that meant I got to eat my beans while running. &nbsp;I had never tried that before...it was an interesting experience. I've always said I was a klutz...you know the kind that can't walk and chew gum at the same time. Running, chewing and swallowing is on a whole new level. Somehow I managed to not fall down, not bite my tongue and not choke. Another first!</div><div><br /></div><div>The moment I swallowed my beans I had a burst of energy. Man those things work fast...or the whole thing is just in my head. &nbsp;Either way...I was ready to keep going. &nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>Since my longest non-stop run was 45 minutes I was determined to beat that. &nbsp; Just a few minutes after skipping my walk I was beginning to question my decision. &nbsp;These mid-run moments of insanity need to stop. &nbsp;I hit as many downhills as possible. I started drinking water more often. As soon as I hit 45 minutes I was relieved. Everything else was just bonus.<br /><br />Having met my first goal I set a new one...50 minutes. &nbsp;By now it was sunny, and I was at the lowest part of the neighborhood. &nbsp;There was no place to go but uphill. I ALMOST made it. Total non-stop running time...49 minutes 42 seconds. A NEW RECORD!!!</div><div><br /></div><div>I walked (uphill) for a little while and decided to finish my run. The plan was 60 minutes of run time...I need to at least get that far. By the time I was done I had run 60 minutes and 20 seconds. Another new record.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-XduBNFRG49o/UjcvAhlng1I/AAAAAAAAANw/mUAR8pIJRyY/s1600/blogger-image-1019786294.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-XduBNFRG49o/UjcvAhlng1I/AAAAAAAAANw/mUAR8pIJRyY/s320/blogger-image-1019786294.jpg" width="213" /></a>Adding in my walking, my total distance today was 6.63 miles. I reached my goal...and then some. I earned my medal! &nbsp;I know that in this virtual race there was no set distance...so I could have run a 5k and called it good...but I wanted to push myself. I didn't want to just do the minimum...I wanted to push myself so that I truly earned it.</div><div><br /></div><div>So... Here's a recap of my firsts for today:</div><div><ul><li>First virtual race</li><li>First non-stop run over 49 minutes</li><li>First total run over 60 minutes (barely...but since this is a sport of nanoseconds my extra 20 seconds is actually like running an extra hour. &nbsp;Right?)</li><li>First run with a sloshy water bottle</li><li>First time to eat while running</li></ul></div><div>This wasn't my perfect run...but it was still a great run. &nbsp; The start of a great week...once I get that nap of course.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Krista Robertsonhttps://plus.google.com/115781861878107840444noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1738272297493650887.post-25699159341334650212013-09-10T18:05:00.000-04:002013-09-10T18:05:08.973-04:00He Said What?!?Today I had a doctor's appointment. It started out like usual...weight, height, blood pressure, sit in the cold little room in my underwear, etc. Soon the doctor came in and it was time to get the appointment under way. Next the doctor wanted to listen to my heart and lungs. <br /><div><br /></div><div>After listening to my heart for a moment he had a strange look on this face. That's when he asked is I ever exercise. I told him I run 2-3 times and bike 1-2 a week (that's probably a little stretch...but we can keep that secret between us). The concerned look left his face, and he responded, "You have a slow hearts beat like an athlete."<br /><div><br /><a name='more'></a></div><div>To be honest...I just about fell off the table. No one has ever accused me of being an athlete!!! &nbsp;Not even when I played soccer (waaaaaay back in 1st and 2nd grade) could you call me an athlete. &nbsp;(Well, you probably couldn't' call it "playing" soccer since I usually just stood in front of the goal as a defender...and my coach only played me the minimum time.) &nbsp;I managed to use my violin to get out of gym class all the way through Jr. High and High School. Let's face it...I've always been a nerd. &nbsp;I've never been an athlete.<br /><br />He said I was an athlete. &nbsp;Let me say that again...he said I was an <b><i><u>ATHLETE</u></i></b>!!! <br /><br />As I type this I'm about to fall off my chair again. &nbsp;Maybe there is hope for me after all...maybe one day I'll be more than a random runner!!!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/e8/b2/db/e8b2db40436fc07285697b16c1584ce8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="." border="0" height="252" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/e8/b2/db/e8b2db40436fc07285697b16c1584ce8.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /></div></div>Krista Robertsonhttps://plus.google.com/115781861878107840444noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1738272297493650887.post-36262479822545888892013-09-04T19:57:00.000-04:002013-09-04T20:30:33.213-04:00August AdventuresAnother month has come and gone. &nbsp;August is always one of my favorites because the kids head back to school (though I didn't like part when I was a kid) and it's my Birthday. &nbsp;The start of school means the start of scouts, dance class and sports. &nbsp;It's been a marathon month...in more ways than one. &nbsp;Here's what I did &nbsp;in August:<br /><br /><a name='more'></a><br /><ul><li>Ran a total of 46 miles</li><li>Walked over 16 miles</li><li>Biked more than 35 miles.</li><li>Bowled a 100 game...including a strike on my first ball. &nbsp;(It went downhill after that.)</li><li>Began to plank</li><li>Climbed to the top of Stone Mountain...and back down without breaking an ankle.</li><li>Ran my first 5k in several months...and got a PR</li><li>Learned that Jillian Michaels is hard cord and insain. &nbsp;I couldn't walk right for several days.</li><li>Had a random moment of insanity and ran up over 500 stairs</li><li>Realized planking is hard</li><li>Enjoyed the beginning of football season</li><li>Turned 29 for the ??th time.</li><li>Reached my weight loss goal.</li><li>Ran for 45 minutes with no breaks</li><li>Ran for 60 minutes with 2 short breaks.</li><li>Abandoned planking</li><li>Spent Labor Day weekend in Alabama and ran there for the first time.</li></ul><div>I'm looking forward to a great September!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="95 degrees and 95% humidity.... Brilliance is running towards the goal of heat stroke." height="280" src="http://www.rottenecards.com/ecards/Rottenecards_61409469_ns6xp7yhrp.png" width="400" /></div><br /><div></div>Krista Robertsonhttps://plus.google.com/115781861878107840444noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1738272297493650887.post-72789837787351462892013-08-30T12:12:00.001-04:002013-08-30T12:14:59.662-04:00It's My BirthdayWhen I moved to Georgia two years ago I was not running. &nbsp;At all. &nbsp;I ran a race on May 1st, and then stopped for a while because of knee pain. &nbsp;Before we moved in July I only ran once or twice. &nbsp;Once we moved I didn't even think about running. &nbsp;If you've ever moved cross country, you know how hectic it can be. &nbsp;If you haven't trust me...it's a circus. &nbsp;Getting the kids started in school while living in temporary housing, closing on a house after leaving one state, closing on a new house, dealing with financing people from some unknown location...and so on and so on. &nbsp;There is no time to run, or think about running, or take a shower. <br /><div><br /></div><div>Once we moved into our new house and I got a majority of the <strike>junk</strike> stuff unpacked I decided it was time to start running again. &nbsp;I chose lace up my shoes and hit the road on my Birthday. &nbsp;What better day for a new beginning? &nbsp;</div><div><br /><a name='more'></a></div><div>Two years later it's my Birthday again. My Georgia runnaversary. &nbsp;A lot has happened in the past two years. &nbsp;I completed my first 5k without walking a step. &nbsp;I've lost over 25 lbs (of course I gained half of that after I moved to Georgia). &nbsp;I've become addicted to running shorts. &nbsp;I've met wonderful friends. &nbsp;I'm proud that running...even randomly...has become part of my life. <br /><br />I think I need to go find some cake!<br /><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="LOVE this as it is exactly what my birthdays are going to be from now on hahahaha (Thank you @Meghan W ) .....Happy Anniversary of Your 29th Birthday." height="224" src="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/f5/50/ad/f550ad43b819255a46ffee1839364515.jpg" width="320" /></div></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">_____________________________</div></div><div><h2 style="text-align: center;">Week in Review</h2></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div><u>Saturday</u></div><div><ul><li><a href="http://therandomrun.blogspot.com/2013/08/mid-state-classic.html#more">Mid-State Classic</a> &nbsp;A fun race and a new PR. &nbsp;Woohoo!</li></ul><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-f0friS_tMAY/UiDCyLm8uUI/AAAAAAAAANc/v7_nnEopPLs/s640/blogger-image-534951274.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-f0friS_tMAY/UiDCyLm8uUI/AAAAAAAAANc/v7_nnEopPLs/s320/blogger-image-534951274.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Post run pic with my fellow <br />"Where's the&nbsp;Finish" ladies...<br />and a couple of photobombers</td></tr></tbody></table><u>Sunday</u></div></div><div><ul><li>Rest. &nbsp;After running late the night before I needed a nap. &nbsp;I always love my Sunday afternoon nap</li></ul><div><u>Monday</u></div></div><div><ul><li>10k training run. &nbsp;I woke up to temperatures in the low 60s. &nbsp;Hallelujah! &nbsp;Today I was scheduled to run 3 segments of 18 minutes each. &nbsp;As I ran the first two I was feeling really good. &nbsp;I started the third still feeling great. &nbsp;I'm sure the sports beans I had just eaten helped me out there. &nbsp;I finished, but I didn't want to stop. &nbsp;I ended up running an extra 6 minutes. &nbsp;That means I ran a full 60 minutes, with only 2 minutes of walking. It's amazing what cooler temps will do for you. &nbsp;My running distance was 5.39 miles. &nbsp;For all you fellow math geeks that's 87% of a 10k. &nbsp;What a way to start my week!</li></ul><div><u>Tuesday</u></div></div><div><ul><li>Short 6.11 mile bike ride. &nbsp;No big hills this week, but I did learn how to put my chain back on when it slipped off. &nbsp;I need to start riding with some hand wipes, just in case my hands get all greasy again.</li><li>Reached my goal weight!!!!!!!!!!</li></ul><div><u>Wednesday</u></div></div><div><ul><li>Hump Day....and rest day</li></ul><div><u>Thursday</u></div></div><div><ul><li>10k training run. &nbsp;Not as cool today as Monday...but I had a shorter run on my plate. &nbsp;Only two 22 minute runs...no extra running this time. My running distance was 4 miles, and my total distance was 6.23 miles. &nbsp;Not bad...I just did what I was supposed to do. &nbsp;</li></ul><div><u>Friday</u></div></div><div><ul><li>Celebrating my Birthday and Georgia runnaversary by taking the day off. &nbsp;I've just got too much going on today to fit it in. &nbsp;Some days it's wonderful to be random.</li><li>Random fact of the day: &nbsp;I was born on the Friday of Labor Day weekend...and so was my daughter.</li></ul><h2 style="text-align: center;">Have a great holiday weekend!!!</h2><div><br /></div></div>Krista Robertsonhttps://plus.google.com/115781861878107840444noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1738272297493650887.post-24108158886784463592013-08-29T16:50:00.000-04:002013-08-29T16:50:37.908-04:00Mid-State Classic<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Vj53uD5Bz38/Uh-Db6vxZII/AAAAAAAAAM4/nusbycZDh7o/s640/blogger-image--350070095.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Vj53uD5Bz38/Uh-Db6vxZII/AAAAAAAAAM4/nusbycZDh7o/s640/blogger-image--350070095.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-__HTGz_sPGA/Uh-Dm33-1CI/AAAAAAAAANA/FFqpKP1NLpk/s640/blogger-image--1086611972.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><br />Saturday night was the Mid-State Classic...a 5k race organized by the Warner Robins High School Cross &nbsp;Country Team. &nbsp;Cross country...yep...these guys know how to run. <br /><br />Even though I posted on Friday that I was running I put off registering until I showed up at the race. &nbsp;My toe was multiple shades of purple (I have pictures but I'll spare you) and there was rain in the forecast. &nbsp;I've always said I'm a fair weather runner. &nbsp;This race was taking place at the fair grounds...and I wanted good weather.<br /><br /><a name='more'></a><br />Luckily for me the weather was great. &nbsp;The temps were cool (almost chilly when I wasn't running) and there was a slight breeze to cool me off. &nbsp;The humidity was still high, but I wouldn't expect anything less. &nbsp;It's still summer in middle Georgia, after all.<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Vj53uD5Bz38/Uh-Db6vxZII/AAAAAAAAAM4/nusbycZDh7o/s1600/blogger-image--350070095.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Vj53uD5Bz38/Uh-Db6vxZII/AAAAAAAAAM4/nusbycZDh7o/s400/blogger-image--350070095.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Posing with the Hubby in front of the clock tower.</td></tr></tbody></table>My hubby and I both decided to run this race. &nbsp;He's been running since he was a freshman in college (that's what you get for being in the military) so running a 5k was not big deal for him. Now that I've started running too it's something that we can do together. &nbsp;If we can just get the kids running we can make it a family event. &nbsp;Of course, we'll need a money tree to pay for all the race fees...but we won't have to buy them any t-shirts t wear to school.<br /><br />We arrived in time to watch the 1 mile fun run...and to make sure we got registered in time to get a shirt. &nbsp;If I'm going to pay that much to race I've got to get a shirt! &nbsp;These were the cool dri-fit like shirts. &nbsp;Bonus!!! &nbsp;Runners don't like to run in cotton...so I always think it's funny that races give out cotton shirts. &nbsp;I know, I know, cotton's cheaper...but the probability that the shirt will get worn again greatly increases when it is a technical shirt. &nbsp;(Wow, that sounds kinda mathy...I guess I do remember something from all those engineering classes in college.)<br /><br />The reason I say it was "dri-fit like" is because I overheard an argument between two pre-teens while waiting for the race to start. &nbsp;One boy was adamant that they shirts were NOT dri-fit. &nbsp;Why? &nbsp;Because they were not Nike brand. &nbsp;Okay...I guess I see his point, but aren't we splitting hairs here? &nbsp;It's like calling all tissues Kleenex...it's just become the accepted word. &nbsp;So...in my opinion I received a dri-fit shirt at the race.<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-0Y2WX9Kyy_c/Uh-Dasx4FQI/AAAAAAAAAMw/quMwNF-vu2o/s640/blogger-image--518341545.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-0Y2WX9Kyy_c/Uh-Dasx4FQI/AAAAAAAAAMw/quMwNF-vu2o/s320/blogger-image--518341545.jpg" width="239" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thanks to my kitchen stool for being<br />such a lovely model.</td></tr></tbody></table>Not only was the shirt dri-fit...it was orange with mostly black print. &nbsp;Double bonus! &nbsp;As a proud Oklahoma State Alumnus, I love anything that is orange and black. &nbsp;Go Pokes!!! &nbsp;My Florida grad husband liked the orange too...even though there was no blue. &nbsp;We were just glad it wasn't red and black. &nbsp;There's <b>way</b> too much UGA stuff around here. <br /><br />After registering we met up with our friends. &nbsp;Some were running with us...and others were just there as moral support. &nbsp;Oh yeah, those that weren't running got the job of watching my kids while I ran. &nbsp;Those are true friends! &nbsp;It was nice to see some of my Facebook running buddies in person. <br /><br />Once registered we watched the fun run...which was mostly kids. I realized we should have entered our kids in the race...they would have won a trophy. &nbsp;Hindsight is always 20/20.<br /><br />As the sun began to set it was time for us to line up and get ready for the race to start. &nbsp;Since we had been standing near the starting line I was up near the front. &nbsp;Of course, there were only 85 racers so there wasn't much of a distance between the front and the back. &nbsp;We prepared for the race to start. &nbsp;It's funny when you look around at the runners at the beginning of a race everyone has their had on something. &nbsp;Those that wear Garmins are ready to press the start button on their watch. &nbsp;Others, like me, are preparing to start their phone apps. &nbsp;It's kinda funny to look at...but I can't say much because I'm doing it too.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-__HTGz_sPGA/Uh-Dm33-1CI/AAAAAAAAANA/FFqpKP1NLpk/s320/blogger-image--1086611972.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finger on the button...ready to run.</td></tr></tbody></table>The couch shouted, "On your mark, get set" and then tried to fire the starting gun. &nbsp;The gun just clicked...and we all laughed. &nbsp;Oops! &nbsp;Try number two...same thing. &nbsp;I overheard someone say they've been using that same gun -for 30 years...maybe it's time for a tune-up? &nbsp;Third time was a charm, and we were off to the races. &nbsp;I mean, we were off racing.<br /><br />I took off fast, just like everyone around me. &nbsp;After about 10 feet I realized I had better slow down....a LOT. &nbsp;That's when everyone began to pass me. &nbsp;Runner after runner passed me like I was standing still. &nbsp;My hubby and my friends left me in their dust. &nbsp;I'm not sure they are my friends anymore.<br /><br />I knew I needed to keep to my usual pace to be able to finish. &nbsp;I had 3 goals for the race:<br /><ol><li>Finish without walking&nbsp;</li><li>Finish without throwing up (this whole running at night thing is new to me...so I tried to make sure I ate early enough that I wouldn't get sick, yet late enough that I would still have enough energy.)</li><li>Finish before it started raining (this was more God that me...but I greatly appreciated His help in this matter)</li><li>Finish with an average time of 11 min/mile or less.</li></ol><div>As I ran the first mile, with many racers going on before me, my legs began to hurt. &nbsp;I thought that was odd, because my legs don't usually hurt when running. &nbsp;It wasn't until I looked behind me that I realized why. &nbsp;We had been running most of the way slightly uphill. &nbsp;I've been to the fairground before I knew the area was pretty flat, so that's what I expected...flat. &nbsp;I now had it in my mind that I was running uphill, so it got a little easier. &nbsp;It's just that whole mind over matter thing. &nbsp;That and the fact that were were running out and back...so that meant we would get a slight downhill coming back. &nbsp;Something to look forward to.</div><div><br /></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-FNNfdgyqJSY/Uh-Ew19ZdMI/AAAAAAAAANM/ofTJsEbzS8g/s640/blogger-image-744683375.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-FNNfdgyqJSY/Uh-Ew19ZdMI/AAAAAAAAANM/ofTJsEbzS8g/s320/blogger-image-744683375.jpg" width="236" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Only 1/4 mile down...still smiling.<br />Not the best picture since it was getting dark...<br />but it proves I was out there.</td></tr></tbody></table>There was a woman that was just in front of my the first mile. &nbsp;She was running in intervals...running for several minutes and then walking a few. &nbsp;At first I caught up to her at the end of her walk...and then she would take off running and pull ahead. &nbsp;I put here on my radar and decided that I was going to beat her...even if by a fraction of a second. &nbsp;I really like her socks...one leg said "Super" and the other said "Hero." &nbsp;I was slightly disappointing though...she usually runs in a tutu and tonight she was only wearing a running skirt.</div><div><br /></div><div>Just after I finished my first mile I started seeing the lead runners who were already coming back. &nbsp;I was running at about half the speed of the lead runner. &nbsp;I guess some people have the need, the need for speed. &nbsp;The rest of us just want to not die.</div><div><br /></div><div>Slowly, one by one all my friends passed me as they were returning to the finish. &nbsp;First it was Scoot, then Paul, Heather, Daniel, and finally my hubby. &nbsp;I'm not sure they are my friends anymore. &nbsp;I did get a few high-fives, and others smiled at me, so maybe I'll give them another chance. &nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>At the half-way turn around point I was ready to stop. &nbsp;I couldn't stop though, because I was only half-way...and I was finally in front of woman I was determined to beat, at least for the moment. &nbsp;At this point she was passing me when she ran, and I was passing her when she walked. &nbsp;I was making progress. Slow and steady wins the race...right? &nbsp;I mean, not the whole race...but the race with her.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>After I turned around I could see all the people behind me. &nbsp;I wasn't last after all! &nbsp;On the return run the crowd began to thin out. &nbsp;I slowly began to pass some of the other runners who had gone out fast and then run out of steam. &nbsp;I was immensely enjoying the slight downhill terrain. &nbsp;The woman I was trying to beat was slowing moving further behind me. &nbsp;After about 2 miles she was just getting up to where I was when she ran and then moving way back on her walk. &nbsp;I wonder if she's racing me in her mind?</div><div><br /></div><div>Finally, I took the big left turn back to the finish line. &nbsp;Since it was dark the road had been lit by streetlights...but the finish line looked like the Griswald's house on Christmas. &nbsp;I could see the lights and the finish line ahead of me (just not very well because I took off my glasses around mile 2...they were getting too steamy.) &nbsp;I knew my pace was right around 11 min/mile, so I used all my energy to pick up the pace. I think this is where I lost the other woman for good. &nbsp;There was a lot of space in front of me...so as I approached the finish line everyone was cheering for me (well maybe some were cheering for the woman behind me...but in my mind it was all for me.)</div><div><br /></div><div>I looked at the clock as I crossed the finish line and the time was 33:40. &nbsp;Not too shabby. &nbsp;Unfortunately, I forgot to stop my running app. &nbsp;Doh! &nbsp;I was so careful to start it right as the race started. &nbsp;I later found out that my official time was 32:37.56. &nbsp;I'm pretty sure that's wrong...but since that's the "official" time I'll take it. &nbsp;That means my pace was 10:31 min/mile...and that my friends is a new PR (that's a personal record for those of you that don't talk "runner"). &nbsp;I did it...I met all my goals. &nbsp;It was a good night for me.</div><div><br /></div><div>As I was downing a cup of water I realized that there was no water stops on the race. &nbsp;I was all ready to practice the new "pinch the cup" method I just learned. &nbsp;Honestly, I really don't need water for a 5k...it's just one of those niceties you look forward to with a race. &nbsp;I did get my post race banana!</div><div><br /></div><div>Hubby and I changed out of our dripping-in-sweat clothes while we waited for the awards ceremony to begin. &nbsp;We both took the opportunity to put on our new orange shirts. &nbsp;Did I mention I love orange? &nbsp;Orange...Power. &nbsp;Orange...Power. &nbsp;Oh wait...this isn't a football game. &nbsp;Sorry...that was my ADD again.</div><div><br /></div><div>We stayed around for the awards because we were sure some of our friends were getting trophies. &nbsp;(Although I'm not sure they are my friends anymore.) &nbsp;Let me take a minute to address an important point here. &nbsp;As I've mentioned...this race gave out trophies, not medals. &nbsp;Runners like me have cute little bib holders with hooks for medals. &nbsp;There's not place for a trophy there! &nbsp;Not that any of this really matters, however, since I didn't get one. &nbsp;I just needed to get that out of my system. &nbsp;Thanks for allowing me to rant.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://ilovetorun.org/images/ecards/_0033_s5-68_29_08_13_17_44.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://ilovetorun.org/images/ecards/_0033_s5-68_29_08_13_17_44.png" width="320" /></a>Awards were given out for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place in each age group. &nbsp;I finished 4th (out of 8) in my age group. &nbsp;In other words, I was the first person not to get an award. &nbsp;Yay me! &nbsp;<strike>My friend</strike> Heather was first in my age group...she's definitely not my friend anymore. &nbsp;All three ladies that finished before me had times of 25:??...so there was no chance I could have caught them. &nbsp;My friends Paul and Scoot also won awards...but since I wasn't competing against them I'll let that slide.</div><div><br /></div><div>Now just in case you're wondering...the woman I was just in front of was in the age group just above mine. &nbsp;She finished 3rd. &nbsp;So...it I had been 1 year and 2 weeks older I would have walked away with a trophy. &nbsp;For the record...I'd rather be younger that have the trophy. &nbsp;Right now I'm trying to find a way to push back my birthday that is supposed to happen tomorrow. &nbsp;I'll be 29...again.</div><div><br /></div><div>There were some trophies left over at the end for age categories where there weren't 3 participants. &nbsp;I was temped to try and snag one of those. &nbsp;It's easy to get a new plate engraved for the front...right? &nbsp;What are they going to do with them anyway?<br /><br />After we left we went straight to Applebee's for dinner. &nbsp;It was now 9:00...and we still hadn't eaten dinner. &nbsp;That post-race banana just wasn't going to cut it. &nbsp;Neither was the frozen yogurt my kids requested. &nbsp;I needed real food. &nbsp;I splurged and went for the steak. &nbsp;After all, I'd just run 3.1 miles. &nbsp;I burned 523 calories...and my metabolism was still up (if all those running articles I've read are true.) &nbsp;Why not reward myself.</div><div></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/c2/20/49/c2204902926406d140cebc4734ea7e6c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="I ran 3 miles this morning,so if I did my math correctly, I'm entitled to eat 3 pounds of pie today." border="0" height="280" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/c2/20/49/c2204902926406d140cebc4734ea7e6c.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /></div><div>Even though I didn't win (or place) it still was a fun night and a fun race. &nbsp;I did my best, I met my goals, and that's really all I can ask for. &nbsp;(Well, that and some of the people in front of me tripping...but that might be asking too much.)<br /><br />My August race is in the books. &nbsp;Now it's time to plan races for the rest of the fall. &nbsp;My goal is to run one race a month...at least a 5k. &nbsp;I'll let you know how that goes.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Krista Robertsonhttps://plus.google.com/115781861878107840444noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1738272297493650887.post-70453850915440333712013-08-23T22:12:00.004-04:002013-08-23T22:12:37.679-04:00It's Race Time<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">I<img src="http://macontracks.org/Images-MTRC-Website/race-calendar-images/MidStateClassic.jpg" /></div>Summer is coming to a close...and that means race season is upon us. &nbsp;There aren't too many races in the summer...it's just too hot around here. &nbsp;Soooooo...I'm kickin' in back into gear tomorrow night at the Mid-State Road Race.<br /><br />It's been a couple of months since my last race...but fortunately I've become a stronger runner since then. &nbsp;I just hope the nightly rain stays away...because I'm not a rainy weather kinda runner.<br /><br /><a name='more'></a><br />Every time I go to a race there are a variety of thoughts and emotions going through my head:<br /><ul><li>I'm excited...races are a blast! &nbsp;The crowd, the atmosphere and the swarm or racers make&nbsp;</li><li>I'm worried...it's a night race. &nbsp;I'm a morning runner...and this race doesn't start until 8 PM. &nbsp;What do I eat and when so that my stomach won't get upset? &nbsp;Will I have enough energy left at the end of the day? &nbsp;What will we eat after the race?</li><li>I'm nervous...I hope I don't fall on my face. &nbsp;I'm always a little nervous before a race...even though I know it's just for fun. &nbsp;</li><li>I'm in pain...I stubbed my toe today. &nbsp;Right now it's a lovely shade of purple...but at least it matches my nail polish.</li></ul><div>Of course, I'll post again after the race. &nbsp;I'm excited this is my first race since I started blogging...so I'll pass on all the excitement.</div><div><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">___________________________________</div></div><div><h2 style="text-align: center;"><b>Week in Review</b></h2></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div><br /></div><div><u>Saturday&nbsp;</u></div><div><ul><li>Rest</li></ul><div><u>Sunday</u></div></div><div><ul><li>Rest (This weekly report isn't starting off well...)</li></ul></div><div><u>Monday</u></div><div><ul><li>Back to my 10k training program. &nbsp;Not a good run at all! &nbsp;First it was humid, then it was raining, and then my stomach started to hurt. &nbsp;I was only able to run 37 of the 51 minutes I was supposed to run. &nbsp;I didn't get too upset...because a couple months ago I couldn't even run 37 minutes. &nbsp;Progress is progress. &nbsp;I did complete 3.3 miles, plus an extra 2.47 walking. &nbsp;It will get better!</li></ul><div><u>Tuesday</u></div></div><div><ul><li>Another busy morning, so only a 6.5 mile bike ride. &nbsp;I learned something this morning. &nbsp;There is one hill I want to stay away from at all costs! &nbsp;It was so hard to ride up that I almost got off and walked. &nbsp;I think that would have been faster. &nbsp;I'll just avoid that street in the future!!!</li></ul><div><u>Wednesday</u></div></div><div><ul><li>Rest (This is beginning to be a theme...and not a good one)</li></ul><div><u>Thursday</u></div></div><div><ul><li>An excellent running day! &nbsp;I completed my 10k training...three sets of 17 minute runs. &nbsp;I love it when I have a great run...the rest of my day goes by so much better. &nbsp;In 51 minutes of running I covered 4.65 miles. &nbsp;That's roughly 7.5k...3/4 of the way to my goal. &nbsp;I'm getting there. &nbsp;</li></ul><div><u>Friday</u></div></div><div><ul><li>Rest. &nbsp;No running the day before a race...I have to make sure I save all my energy and rest my legs so I can be at my best. &nbsp;</li></ul><div>Now I'm sure you've noticed that something's missing. &nbsp;I haven't mentioned planking...not one little bit. &nbsp;Well...I'm not doing so well there. According to the plan I should be planking for something like 3 minutes by now. I'm still stuck on 1 minute...so I'm just hanging out there until further notice. This one month plan may just drag out to 5 or 6 months.&nbsp;</div></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Every. Single. Night. But I'm getting better!" src="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/70/43/5c/70435c8c2bc329fc81433d9546e746c6.jpg" /></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Krista Robertsonhttps://plus.google.com/115781861878107840444noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1738272297493650887.post-75375317594056301422013-08-20T21:44:00.000-04:002013-08-20T21:44:23.849-04:00The Random Runner's Guide to Becoming a Runner<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></div><br /><br /><a href="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/f2/3f/fa/f23ffacd2ce7ef42cd2845913a96b0be.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Learn how to go from zero to running your first 5K. You CAN do it! #running #run #5K #training #skinnyms" border="0" height="320" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/f2/3f/fa/f23ffacd2ce7ef42cd2845913a96b0be.jpg" width="256" /></a>I know<a href="http://therandomrun.blogspot.com/p/about-me.html"> I once said</a> that I really have now clue what I'm doing when it comes to running...and that any advice I give should be taken with a grain of salt. &nbsp;Well...it's advice time. &nbsp;When I started this blog I had several friends you mentioned they've thought about running, but just never got the urge to start. &nbsp;I'm hoping this post will give you the know-how (and hopefully some motivation) to get out there and become a runner too.<br /><br />This post is based on my experiences, as well as some other "not so random" runners that I know. &nbsp;In other words...this is based on people who know what they are talking about. <br /><br /><a name='more'></a><br />First, let's talk about what supplies you will need to get started. &nbsp;Just like you spent hours making sure your children had the right supplies to go back to school (pencils...already sharpened, light blue folder...brads and pockets but not dark blue), you need to make sure you have the right supplies to run. &nbsp;Here are the basic supplies you need (let's work from the ground up):<br /><ul><li>Running shoes. &nbsp;Those canvas Keds you have at the bottom of your closet are not going to work...neither are the tennis shoes that you wear so much that they are your trademark. &nbsp;You need shoes that are designed for running. &nbsp;You need shoes that are comfortable for you. &nbsp;It's time to go shopping! &nbsp;When you try shoes on, run down the aisle to see how they feel. &nbsp;You might get some strange looks, but who cares. &nbsp;These are <b>your</b> feet you're talking about...you need to make sure they are comfy! &nbsp;You don't need to start off with the most expensive pair you can find...but I wouldn't suggest the cheapest either. &nbsp;Here's a little trick I learned going into one of those fancy, expensive running stores. &nbsp;Always buy running shoes 1 full size larger than you normally wear. &nbsp;When you run your toes swell, and they need extra room. &nbsp;Otherwise, you can end up with blisters under your toe nails. &nbsp;Blisters under your toe nails lead to black &amp; blue toe nails. &nbsp;Black &amp; blue toe nails lead to loosing a toe nail. &nbsp;Loosing a toe nail lead to painting your toe with nail polish so it looks like there's still a nail there. &nbsp;Don't paint your toes with nail polish...get the right size shoes instead.</li><li>Socks, Shorts, Shirt. &nbsp;Please wear them. &nbsp;Thanks.</li><li>Sports Bra. &nbsp;Got. To. Have. One. &nbsp;(Okay, guys get a pass on this one.) &nbsp;You will not be happy if you run in a regular bra...or even the super cheap sports bra. Make sure you have one with good support for running. &nbsp;I didn't realize beforehand that it makes a difference...but trust me the girls will be very grateful! &nbsp;</li><li>Phone running app. &nbsp;If you just go out and try to run as far as you can you will quickly get frustrated and give up. &nbsp;You need a plan to slowly work you up to the longer distances. There are soooo many couch to 5k type apps out there. &nbsp;You will definitely need one! &nbsp;When you start running you will be doing intervals...such as run 60 seconds then walk 90 seconds. &nbsp;You can keep track of that on a stop watch...but it's so much easier to let the app do that for you. &nbsp;Your app will also keep track of our pace, distance and other cool stuff. &nbsp;I would highly recommend Ease into 5k by Bluefin Software. &nbsp;That's the app I used and I really liked it. &nbsp;It will even play music from your phone...and good fast music will help keep you moving. &nbsp;I would highly suggest some kind of arm or belt case for your phone. &nbsp;Your hand will get sweaty and you don't want to drop and shatter your phone. &nbsp;I know this from experience. (Can you say shattered iPhone?)</li></ul><div>Now that you have you have your supplies it's time to move on to the hard part...the run. &nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/1c/a2/0a/1ca20ae973edbdcd8b1bfbdfb5310742.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="so true." border="0" height="320" src="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/1c/a2/0a/1ca20ae973edbdcd8b1bfbdfb5310742.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><div>First you need to figure out when you can run. &nbsp;Do you have time in the morning? &nbsp;Are you better at exercising at night? &nbsp;Go with what works best for you. &nbsp;If you're fighting time you'll be less likely to make it out the door. &nbsp;Just don't think about running right after you eat, you'll be sorry. &nbsp;</div><div><br />Next, you need to decide if you would run best solo or with an accountability partner. &nbsp;I prefer to run by myself...but there are lots of people that do better with someone there to nudge you on. &nbsp;That's the person you don't want to leave hanging by not showing up. &nbsp;It's also the person that will help you keep going when you're ready to quit.<br /><br />Last decide where you will run. &nbsp;Whatever you do don't start off running steep hills!!! &nbsp;Find someplace that's relatively flat...you'll have plenty of opportunities to add in some hills once you get in a few runs under your belt and you feel a little more confident.<br /><br />Once you have your gear and you've figured out all the logistics it's time to lace up those shoes and hit the road. &nbsp;Take it slow and easy at first. &nbsp;Don't push yourself to go too fast or you risk the chance of getting injured. &nbsp;Make sure you rest between running days. &nbsp;Remember...you're muscles are not used to this and are probably screaming for mercy. &nbsp;For goodness sake let them rest and get used to the idea. &nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>Whatever you do...don't worry about what you look like. &nbsp;You may feel like you're an elephant stampeding through peanut butter...but I promise that's now what you look like. &nbsp;Since I was 36 when I started to run I felt like experienced runners were laughing at me whenever I ran. &nbsp;Since then I've learned that runners are a special breed of people. &nbsp;They are supportive of each other...no matter how slow you go or how many walk breaks you need to take. &nbsp;There are some runners out there that have been running longer than they can remember...but there are far more of us that took up the sport in their 20s, 30s, 40s, or later. &nbsp;We can all remember those early runs...and know how you feel.<br /><br />So...I promised real running advice from real runners. &nbsp;Here is what Tasha, LeAnn, Katie and Heather said:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/eb/60/11/eb60113b39367e73b39d0ab0594b4361.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="When the little voice talks, just let your mind take a walk, and keep going!" border="0" height="320" src="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/eb/60/11/eb60113b39367e73b39d0ab0594b4361.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><ul><li>Get good shoes</li><li>Find an accountability partner</li><li>Start slow to avoid injury and burnout</li><li>Don't give up</li><li>If you do give up, start again</li><li>Have goals</li><li>Don't compare your beginning to someone else's middle</li><li>Focus on baby steps</li><li>Slow down when you're tired instead of walking</li><li>Just keep going</li><li>Despite the fact that you're running, it's not a race, so just keep moving</li><li>Take rest days between runs</li><li>It is the easiest habit to fall into, and the easiest habit to fall out of</li></ul></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></div><br /><div>I've learned that I need to set goals for motivation. &nbsp;I've told myself that when I run 5 minutes straight I can get a new pair of running shorts, or that when I run 10 minutes with no stops I can get the sparkly headband I've been wanting. &nbsp;Find what will work for you to keep you moving...and keep you walking out the door. <br /><br />Another good motivation is to sign up for a race. &nbsp;If you've signed up (and paid your money) you are more likely to keep with it. &nbsp;Get some friends to sign up with you and make it into a party. &nbsp;It will make all that hard work worthwhile.<br /><br />My last piece of advice...HAVE FUN!!! &nbsp;Be proud of yourself, because once you start, you are now a runner.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/df/8e/7a/df8e7aabdbcd35f50e016521e2bdfe27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="you are a runner" border="0" height="266" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/df/8e/7a/df8e7aabdbcd35f50e016521e2bdfe27.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /></div>Krista Robertsonhttps://plus.google.com/115781861878107840444noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1738272297493650887.post-31045906555002852912013-08-16T17:28:00.000-04:002013-08-16T17:40:20.261-04:00A Rain-Filled Furlough Friday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></div>Yesterday morning it started raining. &nbsp;Since then there have been a few moments of no rain, but it's mostly alternated between a nice gentle sprinkle and raining cats and dogs. As I've said before...I'm more of a perfect weather runner. &nbsp;A small sprinkle doesn't bother me, if fact, it feels kinda good. &nbsp;Rain on the other hand...I avoid like the plague.<br /><br />I decided that since it was raining (hard) I would head up to base and run on the treadmill at the gym. &nbsp;As soon as I pulled into the long line going through the gate I remembered it's furlough Friday. &nbsp;That means the gym annex is closed, and there are limited hours at the main gym. &nbsp;When you add the rain into the mix it means there were a <b>LOT</b> a people there today. <br /><br /><a name='more'></a>First, I had to park at the back of the parking lot. &nbsp;I normally don't mind the extra walk, but it was still raining. &nbsp;I'm just glad I chose to wear flip-flops, not my running shoes. &nbsp;Second, once I got into the gym (only 20 minutes after it opened) ALL of the treadmills were in use. &nbsp;I lurked around behind a couple of the machines and fortunately someone finished in a matter of minutes. &nbsp;I guess I looked creepy enough in my lurking that he decided to give up.<br /><br />After I patiently waited for him to clean up all his sweat (time well spent) I was ready to run. &nbsp;My goal today was 45 minutes straight. &nbsp;No breaks, no walks, nothing but running. Last week I'd made deal with myself that I couldn't get my hair highlighted until I ran 45 minutes straight...and today seemed like a good day. &nbsp;After all, my knees were feeling good, I was out of the rain, and there was no sunshine to zap my energy.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/d2/20/1b/d2201b398daf1f341aec4096dff49646.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="I plan on having such an awesome run Morgan Freeman should narrate it! #funny #running" border="0" height="224" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/d2/20/1b/d2201b398daf1f341aec4096dff49646.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Usually I prefer to run outside instead of treadmill, but there are pros and cons to the machine:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><u><b>Pros</b></u></div><ul><li>I can set my speed and keep myself from running out of steam from going too fast.</li><li>No bright sun and obscene humidity.</li><li>No hills to run up (unless I want to create one...yeah right.)</li><li>I can watch TV.</li><li>There's a handy little cup holder for my water bottle.</li><li>There is a place to hang your towel...which I, of course, forgot.</li><li>No cars to dodge</li><li>Temperature controlled environment</li></ul><div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><u>Cons</u></b></div></div><div><ul><li>No hills to run down. &nbsp;You can change the slope of a treadmill, but you can't make it downhill. &nbsp;I think treadmill designers should work on that...they might get a lot more use that way.</li><li>No breeze from the wind</li><li>No errant sprinklers to cool you off</li><li>Wiping the sweat off your face with a towel is frowned upon...not that it stopped me.</li><li>No trees, flowers, birds, squirrels or squished frogs to look at.</li><li>I feel like a hamster on a wheel.</li><li>No fresh air.</li><li>I have to get in my car and drive there...polluting the fresh air.</li></ul><div>Anyway...I'd still rather be outside. &nbsp;I'm just glad the gym is there as a plan B. &nbsp;Otherwise, today would have been another rest day...and since I'm eating pizza for dinner tonight I don't need another rest day.</div></div><div><br /></div><div>I set my speed a little slower than normal so that I wouldn't run out of gas. &nbsp;I had my favorite running mix going, and I was watching SportsCenter. &nbsp;Time just seems to go by soooo ssslllooowwwlllyyyyy. &nbsp;I guess maybe I should have gone a little faster, because I kept running into the bar at the front of the treadmill. &nbsp;Oops! &nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>Near the end of the first 30 minutes I began to wonder if I was going to make it...but I kept thinking about my hair. &nbsp;I reminded myself how bad my split ends are and how much my roots need a touch-up. &nbsp;That gave me the strength to keep going. &nbsp;I did it...I ran for 45 minutes! &nbsp;My longest run ever!!! &nbsp;Woohoo!</div><div><br /></div><div>As I began my cool down I took off my glasses to wipe the sweat off my face. &nbsp;Before I knew it I had lost a screw and my lens was on the floor. &nbsp;Good thing I ordered new glasses yesterday.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">______________________________</div><div style="text-align: center;"><h2><span style="color: #93c47d; font-family: inherit;">Week in Review</span></h2></div>Saturday<br /><ul><li>Rest day! &nbsp;(Unless you count the several hours we spent walking around the mall.)</li><li>No plank...we were out of town and I forgot</li></ul><div>Sunday</div><div><ul><li>Walked 2.5 miles climbing to the top of Stone Mountain. &nbsp;(Read the adventure <a href="http://therandomrun.blogspot.com/2013/08/standing-on-top-of-world.html">here</a>)</li><li>1 minute plank</li></ul><div>Monday</div></div><div><ul><li>Back to 10k training. This run didn't goes as well as planned, but the hot sun and humidity did me in. &nbsp;I ran a total of 4.2 miles in 46 min (with walking breaks.) &nbsp;My total distance was 6.2 miles. &nbsp;That's right, a 10k baby!</li><li>1 minute plank</li></ul><div>Tuesday</div></div><div><ul><li>Not much time to exercise today, so I rode my bike 6.32 miles. &nbsp;Still loving my <a href="http://therandomrun.blogspot.com/2013/08/new-shortswahoo.html">poopy&nbsp;shorts</a>.</li><li>1 1/2 minute plank</li></ul><div>Wednesday</div></div><div><ul><li>More 10k training, and nice cloudy weather. I ran exactly what was in my plan...no extra breaks needed. &nbsp;It helped that I ran the last part downhill...but I was still running. &nbsp;I ran a total of 4.14 in 45 minutes. &nbsp;With walks my total distance was again 6.2 miles.</li><li>1 1/2 minute plank</li></ul><div>Thursday</div></div><div><ul><li>Rest day</li><li>30 second plank. &nbsp;I guess I rested too much today because I just couldn't plank any more.</li></ul><div>Friday</div></div><div><ul><li>1 1/2 minute plank</li><li>Ran 45 minutes with no stops for a distance of 4.05 miles.</li></ul><div>Wow, two weeks of Monday, Wednesday, Friday running. &nbsp;If I keep this up I'll have to change my name to the Regular Runner...but I don't think that will happen.</div></div><div><br /></div><div>Have a great weekend!</div>Krista Robertsonhttps://plus.google.com/115781861878107840444noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1738272297493650887.post-88200905569747120842013-08-13T19:01:00.000-04:002013-08-13T19:02:16.909-04:00Medals, and Medals, and Medals...Oh My!<br /><div>Several weeks ago I told you that I registered for a <a href="http://therandomrun.blogspot.com/2013/07/marathon-madness.html">virtual marathon</a>, the Joggermom Marathon Cancer Run 2013. &nbsp;This is my first virtual run...and I'm pretty pumped.</div><br />Today I was looking at Facebook and I found a group for virtual races, called&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/321617347930095/?hc_location=stream">Virtual Runs!</a>. &nbsp;That's all it is...a way to connect runners with virtual races. &nbsp;I could not believe how many virtual races there are out there. &nbsp;Each one is being put on to benefit a different charity organization.<br /><br /><a name='more'></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RWZvCvUge3g/Ugl0qbinr_I/AAAAAAAAAMI/PmI6nRiuyk0/s1600/virtual+medals.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RWZvCvUge3g/Ugl0qbinr_I/AAAAAAAAAMI/PmI6nRiuyk0/s640/virtual+medals.jpg" width="148" /></a>The best part about all these virtual runs is the medals. &nbsp;I'm not a fast runner...so the chance of me earning a medal in a race (unless it is a finisher's medal) is pretty much slim to none. &nbsp;So...I've discovered this is the way to fill up my medal holder. &nbsp;After all, having a lot of medals just makes me look like I am a fast runner. <br /><div><br /></div><div>There are so many awesome medals for virtual races that I just want to jump in there and register for each and every one of them. &nbsp;After all...the money is going to a good cause...right? &nbsp;How can I really turn down the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, the Wounded Warrior Project, Alzheimer's Association or the many others I saw. &nbsp;How can I live without the Ugly Christmas Sweater medal or the Unleash Your Inner Wonder Woman medal. &nbsp;I must have them. <br /><br />Most of these virtual races are focused on fundraising...so as long as you move (run, walk, cycle, swim) the 5k, 10k, 13.1 or 26.2 (they usually let you choose the distance) they are fine with it. &nbsp;(Each one will post it's official "rules" so you know what you're getting yourself into before you plop down your cold hard cash.). They just want to create a fun way to collect donations. &nbsp;Many of the races are limited in number, so they quickly sell out. &nbsp;Most of the virtual races cost $15 - $30, so they are affordable (unless, of course, you feel motivated to register for them all.)<br /><br />So, if you're new to running (or have been running for a long time) and you are looking for a way to increase your "bling" you should register for a virtual race.<br /><br />If you don't run but you can walk or ride a bike, you should enter a virtual race.<br /><br />If you just like supporting a good cause and getting a fancy medal for your effort you should enter a virtual race.<br /><br />Just don't be surprised when you're eating raman noodles because you've spent all your money on virtual races. &nbsp;Just don't blame me... I'm only the messenger. </div>Krista Robertsonhttps://plus.google.com/115781861878107840444noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1738272297493650887.post-5879176508205241552013-08-12T15:04:00.001-04:002013-08-12T15:24:47.057-04:00Standing on Top of the World<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-W12jU00S_wE/Ugj4XSY3CEI/AAAAAAAAALI/n_6z6_4nC9o/s640/blogger-image--834885675.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-W12jU00S_wE/Ugj4XSY3CEI/AAAAAAAAALI/n_6z6_4nC9o/s640/blogger-image--834885675.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eROD9mVx03g/Ugj4Yp9UEbI/AAAAAAAAALQ/82tu7qNguUE/s640/blogger-image-2076584934.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eROD9mVx03g/Ugj4Yp9UEbI/AAAAAAAAALQ/82tu7qNguUE/s640/blogger-image-2076584934.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-KElTIYiOSbY/Ugj4bjiifrI/AAAAAAAAALo/gl0wNB8cdDk/s640/blogger-image-1173570046.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-KElTIYiOSbY/Ugj4bjiifrI/AAAAAAAAALo/gl0wNB8cdDk/s640/blogger-image-1173570046.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-74EOVImA41Y/Ugj4atc2bRI/AAAAAAAAALg/vfxRLOqBnVs/s640/blogger-image--2024916103.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-74EOVImA41Y/Ugj4atc2bRI/AAAAAAAAALg/vfxRLOqBnVs/s640/blogger-image--2024916103.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-r4pAQt8Cw8o/Ugg9t3ntebI/AAAAAAAAAKg/6ZlTWefrKdo/s640/blogger-image--910640116.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-r4pAQt8Cw8o/Ugg9t3ntebI/AAAAAAAAAKg/6ZlTWefrKdo/s640/blogger-image--910640116.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-0OQRtUhukTo/Ugj4ZkgqX3I/AAAAAAAAALY/8DsfVts9R4Y/s640/blogger-image--572194969.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>Yesterday I was standing on top of the world...well at least Atlanta. <br /><div><br /></div><div>In our family's typical impromptu style we decided to make a spur of the moment trip to Atlanta for the weekend. One of our favorite places to go is Stone Mountain...and when you go to Stone Mountain you have to climb to the top. &nbsp;So much for a Sunday of rest.</div><div><br /><a name='more'></a></div><div>At exactly 12:00 noon the whole family began the long hike up to the top. If I remember correctly it was about 12:06 that my daughter began complaining about being hot and tired. I'm not surprised...but maybe noon wasn't the best time to start.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-UqEgrbXiiUE/Ugg9vNmYg8I/AAAAAAAAAKo/-7d34XSciIk/s640/blogger-image--1020384552.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-UqEgrbXiiUE/Ugg9vNmYg8I/AAAAAAAAAKo/-7d34XSciIk/s320/blogger-image--1020384552.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ready to start. <br />Notice the smile and lack of sweat.</td></tr></tbody></table>The path to the top of Stone Mountain is a little over 1 mile long and ascends 786 feet. &nbsp;There are some areas that are just a (steeply) sloping incline...while other areas are covered in rocks that make you feel like you're climbing a terribly uneven flight of stairs. &nbsp;It's quite the hike...it really gets your heat pumping. &nbsp;That takes care of my cardio for the day!<br /><br />There are always people on the path...even though we were crazy enough to go during the hottest part of the day. It's fun to watch people climbing up Stone Mountain, an I've decided they all fit into one of 5 categories:<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-KElTIYiOSbY/Ugj4bjiifrI/AAAAAAAAALo/gl0wNB8cdDk/s1600/blogger-image-1173570046.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-KElTIYiOSbY/Ugj4bjiifrI/AAAAAAAAALo/gl0wNB8cdDk/s320/blogger-image-1173570046.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The steepest part of Stone Mountain,<br />complete with handrails. &nbsp;The woman in<br />the center was going up and down this<br />section over and over.</td></tr></tbody></table><ol><li>The Naive Tourists. &nbsp;Stone Mountain is just one of those places you need to visit when you visit Atlanta. &nbsp;Most tourists don't know what their getting themselves into when they decide to make the climb. &nbsp;You can easily pick them out of the crowd. &nbsp;They are wearing normal clothes...they don't realize they are going to sweat. &nbsp;A tourist will often bring along their purse (no matter how big)...because after all there are signs all over the parking lot not to leave valuables in the car. &nbsp;They are often looking at each other, wondering how much further. &nbsp;They will also not bring along any kind of snacks or drinks. &nbsp;You will later see them at the top buying the $5 Icees. &nbsp;There is also a good chance that a tourist will have random items like an iPad (yes, I actually say one.)</li><li>The Return Visitors. &nbsp;Our family fits in this category. &nbsp;We've been to Stone Mountain several times, so we know what to expect. &nbsp;We bring our Powerade, we dress to sweat, we wear our sturdy walking shoes. &nbsp;(Unless, hypothetically, a mom forgets to bring tennis shoes for her daughter and the daughter is forced to walk all the way up and all the way down in flip-flops. &nbsp;This is all hypothetical of course.) &nbsp;Return visitors know how far it is to the tops, so they are not constantly asking, "Are we there yet?" &nbsp;Well, except for the kids, but they will ask even going to Walmart...so they don't count.</li><li>The Fitness Fanatic. &nbsp;There are actually some people that use Stone Mountain for exercise. &nbsp;Some walk it daily, some even run up and down. &nbsp;They are easy to recognize because they are on a mission. &nbsp;(Don't get in their way...some might run you over. &nbsp;Just ask my son.) &nbsp;They wear their running clothes and shoes. &nbsp;They have their iPod and earbuds. &nbsp;They are tracking their distance and speed on a Garmin. &nbsp;Some wear hydration packs, but they all have water ready. &nbsp;I have one comment to these people: just because you might go to the gym in tight, skimpy little outfits doesn't mean they are appropriate here. &nbsp;There are young children on the mountain! &nbsp;Thank you...this ends my rant.</li><li>The Random Oddball. &nbsp;I've learned that no mater where you go, when there is a large population of people (and sometimes small) there will always be one person that makes you ask, "WHAT?" &nbsp;The same is true of Stone Mountain. &nbsp;Yesterday seemed pretty normal, but I remember the last time we were there we saw a guy walking down slowly playing his guitar and singing. &nbsp;There seems to always be at least one in every crowd. &nbsp;Oh the joy of people watching.</li><li>The Riders. &nbsp;Besides the trail, there is one other way to get to the top of Stone Mountain...the tram. &nbsp;These people don't want to have to walk to get to the top. &nbsp;Some may not be able...some just choose not too. &nbsp;If you purchase a Mountain Pass to do all the other fun activities the tram is included...so there are some that don't see the point in walking if they've already paid to ride. &nbsp;Riders are easy to spot because they seldom wander more that 100ft from the tram station, they're not breathing heavy and not covered in sweat. &nbsp;Riders have smiles on their faces!</li></ol><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-r4pAQt8Cw8o/Ugg9t3ntebI/AAAAAAAAAKg/6ZlTWefrKdo/s1600/blogger-image--910640116.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-r4pAQt8Cw8o/Ugg9t3ntebI/AAAAAAAAAKg/6ZlTWefrKdo/s320/blogger-image--910640116.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The tram...aka the smart person climbing method.</td></tr></tbody></table>It probably took us about 45 minutes to make it to the top. &nbsp;(I really should have brought my phone and used my running app to track everything...but I didn't have pockets and was afraid I'd shatter the glass.) &nbsp;Of course there were several drink breaks, photo ops and, "I NEED to rest." &nbsp;About half way up I realized my breakfast was sitting like a rock in the bottom of my stomach. &nbsp;I guess that huge omelet for breakfast was not the smartest decision I made all day. &nbsp;It reminded me of the episode from "The Office" where Michael eats&nbsp;fettuccine alfredo just moments before a 5k...except I wasn't puking. (If you haven't watched the Fun Run episode I highly recommend it. &nbsp;It's season 4, episode one.)<br /><br />The climb is hard and challenging, but the view from the top is worth it! Seeing the city of Atlanta all around is awe-inspiring. &nbsp;Of course, knowing I have just conquered the mountain is a nice feeling too. &nbsp;The occasional clouds and nice breeze didn't hurt either. &nbsp;Did I mention there's also a building with air conditioning? &nbsp;(And overpriced drinks...for those who didn't think ahead.)<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-74EOVImA41Y/Ugj4atc2bRI/AAAAAAAAALg/vfxRLOqBnVs/s1600/blogger-image--2024916103.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-74EOVImA41Y/Ugj4atc2bRI/AAAAAAAAALg/vfxRLOqBnVs/s320/blogger-image--2024916103.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On top of Stone Mountain...the city of Atlanta behind me.</td></tr></tbody></table>After exploring for a few minutes it was time for us to head down...but that's no walk in the park either. &nbsp;Coming down was less cardio, but it hurt my knees more that walking up. &nbsp;There are lots of big steps down onto uneven surfaces. &nbsp;It's what you might call a leg snapper type situation...especially for someone as clumsy as me. &nbsp;I'm proud to say I only twisted my ankle once...and I was only out of commission for about a minute. &nbsp;My daughter was happy to sit and rest with me in her flip-flops. &nbsp;(Okay, so maybe that wasn't so hypothetical after all.)<br /><br />By the time we reached the bottom we were worn out, and I was a big sweaty mess. &nbsp;Good thing I brought along a full change of clothes, because there wasn't one thing on me that was dry. &nbsp;I'm proud to say I earned my Climber's Certificate...even if they were just sitting out for anyone to take. &nbsp;Of course, it's suitable for framing. &nbsp;I know I earned it!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-M2TSLG8UAy8/UgkfMZvjvmI/AAAAAAAAAL4/XLa3cSYLVbM/s640/blogger-image-1742535355.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="299" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-M2TSLG8UAy8/UgkfMZvjvmI/AAAAAAAAAL4/XLa3cSYLVbM/s400/blogger-image-1742535355.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />We drove around to the front of Stone Mountain, because what's the point of going if you don't even look at the carving. &nbsp;Here is where I finished my exercise for the day...I planked on the lawn in front of the mountain while Stonewall Jackson, Robert E. Lee and Jefferson Davis look on.&nbsp; A friend suggested I plank at the top, but I didn't get her text until we reached the bottom. &nbsp;The granite at the top would have been too hard to plank on anyway...talk about some serious arm pain! &nbsp; My husband has suggested that I should start planking all over the place...we'll just have to see. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-SMHk6hK5UqE/Ugg9wKycjhI/AAAAAAAAAKw/k-tw_jKEPdY/s640/blogger-image--802224926.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-SMHk6hK5UqE/Ugg9wKycjhI/AAAAAAAAAKw/k-tw_jKEPdY/s320/blogger-image--802224926.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br /><br />I'd love to come back and camp at Stone Mountain, preferably in the fall. &nbsp;There is a road that goes all the way around the base of the mountain, and it is always filled with runners and bikers. &nbsp;There is also a wooded trail...great for hiking or trail running. &nbsp;What a great place to run...randomly of course!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-W12jU00S_wE/Ugj4XSY3CEI/AAAAAAAAALI/n_6z6_4nC9o/s1600/blogger-image--834885675.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-W12jU00S_wE/Ugj4XSY3CEI/AAAAAAAAALI/n_6z6_4nC9o/s400/blogger-image--834885675.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /></div></div>Krista Robertsonhttps://plus.google.com/115781861878107840444noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1738272297493650887.post-86808536414938344232013-08-09T21:01:00.000-04:002013-08-09T21:01:50.057-04:00Stairs...Why'd it Have to be Stairs?Last night my husband had a volleyball game at church. Instead of just watching the game, my friend Tasha and I decided to get a little exercise ourselves. Tasha suggested we run the steps outside the church. She's always getting me in trouble like that.<br /><div><br /></div><div>There are two sets of steps outside the church...each with 28 steps. One set has 3 landings and the other only has one. We decided that we should at least start with the harder flight.&nbsp;</div><div><br /><a name='more'></a><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-LKLBtRWEQuU/UgTxzCSr1lI/AAAAAAAAAKA/VTkdwnB26Oo/s640/blogger-image--877707642.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-LKLBtRWEQuU/UgTxzCSr1lI/AAAAAAAAAKA/VTkdwnB26Oo/s400/blogger-image--877707642.jpg" width="299" /></a></div><br /><div>At first my goal was to run up 10 times...just because its a nice round number. I tried to stay near the handrail, since I've been know to trip UP steps in the past...and I have a low pain tolerance. &nbsp;</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875);"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875);">My two kids plus Tasha's pre-teen son were with us. &nbsp;They seemed to be all over the steps, circling us like sharks. (Hey...isn't this shark week?) &nbsp;it sure seemed like there were more than 3 of them. At one point my son decided he wanted to give me an extra challenge and he jumped in front of me. Trying to get around him I felt like live action Frogger dodging cars. One I passed him he grabbed my leg and I had to drag him up the second half of the stairs. Running stairs is hard enough, but an extra 60 pounds of dead weight doesn't make it any easier. I can comfort myself knowing I burned off at least an extra bowl of ice cream thanks to him.&nbsp;</span></div><div><br /></div></div><div>After 10 reps (280 steps...yes we were counting) we decided we should go for 15. Fortunately by now the kids had gotten tired of the steps and had moved on to playing in the parking lot. (Yes, we were the only ones in that part of the church and there were no cars around). &nbsp; Five more reps later we were done...or so we thought.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>Walking back to the gym we had to walk up the other set of 28 steps...so we decided we might as well run those too. That gave us a grand total of 16 reps. We were so worn out that we didn't do our calculations until we we're inside the comfortably air conditioned building. 16 reps of 28 steps gave us a grand total of 448 steps. Being that close to 500 we foolishly made the decision that we could go back outside and do 2 more reps.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>This time we chose the steps with more landings. More landings=more breaks=less chance we would die. We finished our last two reps and felt the need to collapse. We were done. &nbsp;D. O. N. E. Done!</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-M7HnPldM9k4/UgT81dMni3I/AAAAAAAAAKQ/K4Qb0P6lMgE/s640/blogger-image--1991463716.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="299" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-M7HnPldM9k4/UgT81dMni3I/AAAAAAAAAKQ/K4Qb0P6lMgE/s400/blogger-image--1991463716.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />Somehow we ended up at the bottom of the steps again, (probably something to do with the picture above) and the gym was still at the top of the steps. LAST TIME...and I mean it. We ran up giving us a total of 19 reps. 532 steps total. A new record for us (of course our old record was 0...but that's not really the point.).&nbsp;<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">Tasha's husband later tried to talk us into more reps to make it an even 20, but that just wasn't happening.&nbsp;</span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><br /></span><br /><div style="text-align: center;">____________________________________</div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><br /></span></div><div><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">Week in review</span></h2></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">I know I didn't post everything I did this past week (I didn't want to bore you) so here's a quick summary of what happened:</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><b><u>Friday Night</u></b></span><br /><ul><li>Planked for 20 seconds</li><li>Bowled a strike! &nbsp;The whole family went bowling with some friends on Friday night and <b><u>I</u></b> bowled a strike. &nbsp;It was the first ball I threw...and the only strike I bowled that night. &nbsp;My next ball was in the gutter. &nbsp;I just wanted to let you know how random I can be in all aspects of my life. (Oh, I bowled a 112 on the first game and was the undisputed winner. &nbsp;Yay me!)</li></ul></div><div><b><u><br /></u></b><b><u>Saturday</u></b><br /><ul><li>Planked for 30 seconds.</li><li>Sweated outside in the yard. &nbsp;More <a href="http://therandomrun.blogspot.com/2013/06/cross-training.html">cross training</a> for me.</li></ul></div><div><b><u><br /></u></b><b><u>Sunday</u></b></div><div><ul><li>Planked for 30 seconds</li><li>Took a much needed afternoon nap</li></ul></div><div><b><u><br /></u></b><b><u>Monday</u></b>&nbsp;</div><div><ul><li>Ran 3.74 miles. &nbsp;Today I went back to my 10k training program. &nbsp;The goal was to run a total of 40 minutes (with three 1 minute breaks). &nbsp;At the end of my run I tacked on one more minute for good measure. &nbsp;3.74 miles in 41 minutes. &nbsp;That's just under 11 min/mile. &nbsp;Awesome pace for me! &nbsp;My total walking distance (warm up, cool down, intervals, and a little extra at the end) was 1.28 miles. &nbsp;Total workout time...1 hour exactly.</li><li>Planked for 20 seconds. &nbsp;I know, I was supposed to plank for 40 seconds. &nbsp;I made the mistake and tried to plank shortly after running. &nbsp;I just couldn't do it. &nbsp;The plan was to try again later in the day...but I forgot. &nbsp;I'm sure my subconscious just didn't want to...or something like that.</li></ul></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><b><u>Tuesday</u></b>&nbsp;</span><br /><ul><li>Planked for 40 seconds. &nbsp;Today was supposed to be a day off...but I still needed to complete yesterday's plank. &nbsp;I planked first thing in the morning because I didn't want to forget. &nbsp;Plank...done!</li><li>Elliptical for 33 min. &nbsp;I finally went back to the gym on base. &nbsp;It was nice to get in some cardio that doesn't hurt my knees.</li><li>Weights. &nbsp;After the elliptical I spent about 20 minutes on weight machines. &nbsp;I started with the inner and outer thigh machines that I love (to hate). &nbsp;Next I wanted to try a few new machines, working a few other muscles. &nbsp;The first machine I sat down at wasn't set up for someone my size. &nbsp;After about 5 minutes trying to adjust it (and I'm sure there was more than one person laughing at my ineptitude) I finally gave up without ever using the machine. &nbsp;Who needs to lift weights anyway?</li></ul></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><b><u>Wednesday</u></b></span><br /><ul><li>Ran 4.04 miles. &nbsp;Today I went back to running. &nbsp;The goal was to move up the next step on my Bridge to 10k program. &nbsp;Unfortunately, I fat fingered the app...and I redid my last run. &nbsp;I didn't realize it until I was 15 minutes into my workout. Doh!!! &nbsp;What I should have done is run for a total of 45 minutes (with two 1 minute breaks). &nbsp;So...I punished myself by running what should have been my cool down. &nbsp;That means I ran 45 minutes with three 1 minute breaks. &nbsp;Not too bad. &nbsp;It was humid like a sauna...and I learned that there is a limit to the amount of sweat my dri-fit shirt can absorb. &nbsp;Good thing it misted a little on and off to cool me occasionally. &nbsp;In addition to running I walked 1.03 miles for a total workout time of 1 hour exactly.</li><li>Planked for 45 sec. &nbsp;This is really starting to get hard!</li></ul></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><b><u>Thursday</u></b></span><br /><ul><li>Planked for 45 sec. &nbsp;I'm not sure I'm ever going to get to 5 minutes...</li><li>Cycle for 6.4 miles. &nbsp;Loving my new <a href="http://therandomrun.blogspot.com/2013/08/new-shortswahoo.html">bike shorts</a>.</li><li>Ran 532 steps. &nbsp;Ouch!</li></ul></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><b><u>Friday</u></b></span><br /><ul><li>Ran 3.1 miles. &nbsp;Since Monday I've done cardio every day. &nbsp;I wanted to keep that up, but finish the week on something easy. &nbsp;I decided the best way to do that is to run a straight 5k. &nbsp;After all, I don't want to get too used to running intervals, or I'll get too dependent on those breaks. &nbsp;It was super sunny this morning, so I modified my route to stay in the shade. &nbsp;On days like today shade is my best friend.</li></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/fc/a9/9c/fca99cf67805b05676558544a0e2a6d7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="at our toughest mile when we dont think we can go any farther, we all need something to motivate us and keep us going. For the love of running!- Please choose me to run SF Women marathon!" border="0" height="224" src="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/fc/a9/9c/fca99cf67805b05676558544a0e2a6d7.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br />I can't believe that I actually ran 3 times this week...but my knees are not happy with me. &nbsp;I'm probably going to have to give them a rest next week. &nbsp;But there will be no rest for the planks!<br /><br /></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><br /></span></div>Krista Robertsonhttps://plus.google.com/115781861878107840444noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1738272297493650887.post-5461506118809879122013-08-08T15:34:00.000-04:002013-08-09T20:45:41.325-04:00New Shorts...Wahoo!!!A few weeks ago I discovered that I am addicted to running shorts. I have way too many pairs, and I wear them all the time. When my husband read <a href="http://therandomrun.blogspot.com/2013/07/i-love-running-because.html">this post</a> he banned my from buying any more shorts...and honestly I can't blame him.<br /><br /><div>This week I bought some new shorts. I didn't break any rules, however, because these are not running shorts. I'm pretty sure they would not be comfortable to run in...but it would get the whole neighborhood rolling on the street laughing.<br /><br /><a name='more'></a><br /><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/31/83/0f/31830f148bf1aceacf89c278afabe934.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Clothes shopping has dwindled to buying athletic shorts, collecting T-Shirts from 5K races and wondering how the hell I will afford another pair of running shoes." border="0" height="224" src="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/31/83/0f/31830f148bf1aceacf89c278afabe934.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /></div><div>This time I bought some biking shorts. I'm talking about those tight little spandex shorts. &nbsp;I needed a pair because they have extra padding in the areas bikers need it most. I know I have a nicely padded bike seat&nbsp;<u style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">and</u>&nbsp;God (and pizza, Coke, Girl Scout cookies, etc.) has given me&nbsp;a lot of padding on my backside, but after riding for a while it just starts to hurt.<br /><br />My husband has a similar pair of shorts, and our kids love to laugh at us when we wear them. &nbsp;They say it looks like we pooped in our shorts (so very attractive). &nbsp;They've even started calling them our "poopy pants." &nbsp;I love to put them on and get as close to the kids as I can...they run away screaming. &nbsp;After all, kids need a little torture every now and then.</div><div><br /></div><div>Today I put them on and headed out for my first ride with my brand new shorts. (Don't worry, I still hold tight to the belief that no one needs to ever see me in spandex in public...so I threw a pair of my favorite running shorts on top). What a difference a little padding makes! &nbsp;My backside was very thankful. <br /><br />Unfortunately I only had time to ride for 30 minutes, so my next ride will be the true test. &nbsp;I expect to feel like I'm sitting on a cloud the whole time. &nbsp;Okay, not really...but if I'm in less pain than previous rides the shorts are worth it.<br /><br />Here's a lesson I learned from a good friend (I'll be nice and not name any names). &nbsp;If you are buying bike shorts you want to get shorts with padding, not gel. &nbsp;My friend (to make it easier I'll just call him Paul) went on a long ride recently. &nbsp;After about 50 miles, Paul noticed that his gel was not as comfy as it has once been. &nbsp;Once he finished the whole 100 miles he realized that he had less gel than he started out with. &nbsp;Paul has no idea where it went or how it disapeared. &nbsp;Now, this should not be a problem for me because there is no way I'll ever bike that far at one time...but I'm not taking any chances. <br /><br />I enjoyed my 6.4 miles today, and I'm glad I had my shorts. <br /><br />Maybe I can talk my hubby into letting me get some more running shorts this weekend...after all they're on sale, and they're tax free. &nbsp;&nbsp;</div>Krista Robertsonhttps://plus.google.com/115781861878107840444noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1738272297493650887.post-36916344761400264092013-08-04T20:57:00.000-04:002013-08-09T20:48:48.229-04:00My Running Bucket ListPart of running (at least for me) to going to races. &nbsp;Just about any weekend there are hundreds of races across the country. &nbsp;Here are just a few that I would LOVE to run...one of these days:<br /><br /><b><u></u></b><br /><a name='more'></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b><u><b><u><span style="color: #b6d7a8;">______________________________________</span></u></b></u></b></div><b><u></u></b><div style="text-align: center;"><b><u><b><u><span style="color: #b6d7a8;"></span></u></b><br /></u></b><b><u><a href="" name="more"></a><b><u><span style="color: #b6d7a8;"><br /></span></u></b></u></b></div><b><u><div style="text-align: center;"><b><u><a href="http://www.rundisney.com/">Any DisneyWorld Race</a></u></b></div></u></b><br /><div>Disney always does everything first class...and that includes their races. Everyone who has done a Disney race will tell you how much fun they are. There is entertainment along the course, including all your favorite Disney characters. You get to run through the Parks, which ones and how many is determined by which race you run. &nbsp;If you run a half or full marathon you get to run through Cinderella's castle...with your cheering squad there to cheer you on. How cool is that???</div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://as1.wdpromedia.com/media/rundisney/princess-half-marathon/princess-half-marathon-230x150-01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Princess Half Marathon" border="0" src="http://as1.wdpromedia.com/media/rundisney/princess-half-marathon/princess-half-marathon-230x150-01.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I don't know these Princesses, but they<br />sure look like they are having fun!</td></tr></tbody></table></div><div>If I had to pick one, I would probably go with the Princess Half Marathon, run each year in February. &nbsp;Although there are men that run this race, it's primarily women. &nbsp;The best part is they encourage you to dress up...so there are all kinds of Princesses running the course. &nbsp;That would be so much fun. &nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>There are some challenges to running a Disney race. &nbsp;You have to keep up a minimum pace, or they will pick you up in a bus. &nbsp;If you get picked up, you don't get your finisher medal. &nbsp;What a bummer to do all that preparation and not be able to finish. &nbsp;Also, they sell out FAST. &nbsp;It's August, and the Princess Half Marathon is already sold out for next February...6 months from now. &nbsp;There's no waiting until the last minute. &nbsp;Lastly, these races are expensive. &nbsp;This is Disney after all!</div><div><br /></div><div>Once I get to be a more confident, less random runner I'll consider it. &nbsp;Who knows, maybe I will run with Mickey one of these days.</div><div><b><u></u></b><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b><u><b><u><span style="color: #b6d7a8;">______________________________________</span></u></b></u></b></div><b><u></u></b><div style="text-align: center;"><b><u><b><u><span style="color: #b6d7a8;"><br /></span></u></b></u></b></div><b><u></u></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><u><a href="http://makeitbymidnight.homestead.com/">Make It By Midnight</a></u></b></div><div><div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">This race is completely different...almost backwards. MIBM is a half or full marathon run in Macon, Ga every year in July. Do you know how hot it gets in Georgia in July? &nbsp;But as I said...this race is different. The goal isn't to be the first to finish. &nbsp;Your time doesn't even matter. The goal is to finish as close to midnight as you can...without going over. Kinda like the Price is Right of racing. You pick your own start time. Everyone who finishes before midnight gets a tiara (yes, even the guys) and everyone who misses the deadline gets a pumpkin. How could a race like that not be fun? &nbsp;</div><b><u><br /></u></b><br /><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div><br /></div><div>This race also fills up fast. &nbsp;Since it's held in a gated neighborhood there is a strict limit of 125 runners. &nbsp;Good thing I know the race director!<br /><b><u></u></b><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b><u><b><u><span style="color: #b6d7a8;">______________________________________</span></u></b></u></b></div><b><u></u></b><div style="text-align: center;"><b><u><b><u><span style="color: #b6d7a8;"><br /></span></u></b></u></b></div><b><u></u></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><u><a href="http://www.peachtreeroadrace.org/">Peachtree Road Race</a></u></b></div><div>The Peachtree is a July 4th tradition in Atlanta. Yes, July 4th in Hotlanta. Crazy...I know. The Peachtree claims to be the world's largest 10k with 60,000 runners. It so popular that registration used to fill up on a matter of hours, so they had to go to a lottery system for registration. (I just realized everything on my list is hard to register for...hmmm) &nbsp;My sister-in-law has run this race several times and told me its a really fun race to run. &nbsp;She says the crowds all along the race are awesome...constantly encouraging the racers.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>Most races you get a shirt for running...but the Peachtree has a finisher's shirt. &nbsp;Each year the design is top secret, and runners can't see it until they cross the finish line. This race is all about the shirt</div><div><b><u></u></b><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b><u><b><u><span style="color: #b6d7a8;">______________________________________</span></u></b></u></b></div><b><u></u></b><div style="text-align: center;"><b><u><b><u><span style="color: #b6d7a8;"><br /></span></u></b></u></b></div><b><u></u></b><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b><u><a href="http://www.okcmarathon.com/">Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon</a></u></b></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tCc7NuZ_d34/UfGPoOvmO-I/AAAAAAAAAJk/VNuZamjQ5r0/s1600/blogger-image-1601589704.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tCc7NuZ_d34/UfGPoOvmO-I/AAAAAAAAAJk/VNuZamjQ5r0/s200/blogger-image-1601589704.jpg" width="149" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My OKCMM Medal</td></tr></tbody></table>I've run the 5k at the OKCMM, but it's really a 5k walk. There's no timing and no winners...but there is a finisher's medal! I would like to one day participate in one of the other races...the half marathon, full marathon, or more realistically, the marathon relay. The relay consists of 5 legs; a 12k, two 10k and two 5k. Altogether they make a full marathon, and they run on the same route as the rest of the marathoners. &nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>This race is very moving. &nbsp;It starts on one side of the Gates of Time (one of the entrances into the memorial where the Murrah building once stood) &nbsp;with 168 seconds of silence in memory of the 168 people who perished in the Murrah Building on April 19, 1995. The marathon then winds through scenic parts of OKC (including Bricktown, the State Capital, Lake Hefner and beautiful neighborhoods) before finishing near the Memorial back in Downtown. Last years over 23,000 participated. It's a really big deal in Oklahoma City.</div><div><b><u></u></b><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b><u><b><u><span style="color: #b6d7a8;">______________________________________</span></u></b></u></b></div><b><u></u></b><div style="text-align: center;"><b><u><b><u><span style="color: #b6d7a8;"><br /></span></u></b></u></b></div><b><u></u></b></div><div>I don't know know if I'll ever get to do any of these...but this is my running bucket list. Over time I'm sure I'll add to it, but I'll be sure to let you know when I get to cross any off my list.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><ol></ol></div></div>Krista Robertsonhttps://plus.google.com/115781861878107840444noreply@blogger.com0